Anheuser-Busch celebrates 20 years in Bartow

From left, Cartersville Anheuser-Busch brewery's environmental health safety and security manager Michelle Kelly, General Manager Rob Haas and Senior Brewmaster Dan Kahn, along with other employees, celebrate the brewery's 20th anniversary this year.

December 11, 2013

It was the summer of 1993 when Bartow County saw new neighbor Anheuser-Busch officially open for business.

The company has found more than success and profits over the years, it has found a home.

Now some 20 years later Anheuser-Busch celebrates two decades of success both in business and in community.

General Manager Rob Haas said being “good corporate citizens” is something that drives the plant, which is located in a 2.7 million-square foot facility off Cassville-White Road.

Haas said it has been rewarding being a part of the local community, which has grown exponentially.

“This area continues to grow,” Haas said. “Having this brewery has allowed us to grow with the landscape. It’s a great place to do business.”

The brewery, one of 12 in the country, employs about 560 employees locally and aside from producing over 30 different beers, it has made a point of investing in the community as well.

“We’re very proud to be part of the local community,” Haas said.

In addition, the brewery sponsors events, such as the Century Bike Ride, donates emergency water for relief efforts, has helped build two Habitat for Humanity homes and helps with the annual cleanup at Lake Allatoona.

Haas said the brewery support for the community extends to the environment.

Haas said the brewery recycles 99.8 percent of its “solid waste” for other uses.

For example, excess yeast used in the brewing process yeast byproduct is used as a nutrient rich pet food.

“Anything in the process that becomes waste, we find a use for,” Haas said.

In the past three years alone Haas said Anheuser-Busch has invested $65 million in the Cartersville brewery. Some of which to help conserve natural resources and conserve energy.

Haas said building sustainability for the brewery is better for business and the community.

“We want to be the best beer company in a better world,” Haas said. “We want to be integrated and make sure our business stays sustainable for the long haul.”

Michelle Kelly, environmental health safety and security manager said the brewery’s ability to integrate locally has been due in large part to an accepting community.

“We definitely know we’ve picked the right place to be,” Kelly said. “We’re excited about the future.”

Brewmaster Dan Kahn, said the brewery and its employees all share the same philosophy which translates to a great product and a great relationship.

“Our Dream starts with our CEO and is transferred throughout the organization,” said Kahn.

Article from Neighbor Newspapers by Monica Burge