Tepid Response to Bud Light Customers

Anheuser-Busch Response

Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash

I didn't think there would be a part two to my last post about the screw-up at Anheuser-Busch, but then the CEO decided to put out a statement, and it does nothing. It's another screwup, and social media is reacting accordingly. Here's the entire statement as follows, and then we'll take it apart line by line and go through what's wrong with it and why.

“As the CEO of a company founded in America’s heartland more than 165 years ago, I am responsible for ensuring every consumer feels proud of the beer we brew.

We’re honored to be part of the fabric of this country. Anheuser-Busch employs more than 18,000 people and our independent distributors employ an additional 47,000 valued colleagues. We have thousands of partners, millions of fans and a proud history supporting our communities, military, first responders, sports fans and hard-working Americans everywhere.

We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people. We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer.

My time serving this country taught me the importance of accountability and the values upon which America was founded: freedom, hard work and respect for one another. As CEO of Anheuser-Busch, I am focused on building and protecting our remarkable history and heritage.

I care deeply about this country, this company, our brands and our partners. I spend much of my time traveling across America, listening to and learning from our customers, distributors and others.

Moving forward, I will continue to work tirelessly to bring great beers to consumers across our nation. 

Brendan Whitworth

CEO, Anheuser-Busch”

Overall, this strikes me as lacking in any substance. This was a statement to put out a statement, and it's so lacking in anything meaningful that it's hard for some to criticize. That's probably what they intended. They needed to say something, so they chose to say something that says nothing to prevent further criticism. Say something without saying anything was probably the advice given to the CEO by their PR agency who also doesn't want to be criticized. This isn't leadership.