European Beer News (Issue 21)

by Jim Dykstra

Tapping Beck’s Coffers

In a case of mistaken identity, American drinkers of the once-imported German pilsner Beck's have successfully sued for $20 million in a class action suit after claiming the beer’s packaging was deceptive.

The lawsuit was filed in 2013 by a group of several drinkers who noted a lack of “Made in the U.S.A.” labeling on Beck’s packages, despite being brewed in St. Louis by Anheuser-Busch since 2012. The beer also emphasized its “German quality”, referencing its general adherence to the Reinheitsgebot.

While it is technically brewed under the same strictures as true German lager, being brewed in the U.S. technically disqualifies Beck's from making the claim, and according to the plaintiffs’ attorney, Tucker Ronzetti, the packaging and pricing should reflect that.

"They realized they had been deceived," Ronzetti said of his clients. "The packaging didn't really explain that it was a domestic beer."

After an attempt to have the case thrown out, AB agreed to change its packaging to feature its American origins more prominently.

"We reached a compromise in the Beck's labeling case," said Jorn Socquet, Anheuser-Busch vice president for marketing. "We believe our labeling, packaging and marketing of Beck's has always been truthful, transparent and in compliance with all legal requirements."

With receipts, anyone who purchased retail, packaged Beck’s can receive up to $50, and those without are eligible for up to $12. Claims can be filed at www.becksbeersettlement.com.

Less Guests and Arrests at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest 2015 saw a significant drop in attendance at 5.9 million, down 400,000 from the previous year, and the lowest since 2009.

Oktoberfest chief Josef Schmid attributed the drop to sullen weather and newly introduced border checks, an attempt to gauge the record numbers of Syrian refugees seeking asylum in the country.

Along with the tightened border security, the influx of refugees led to heightened usage of Germany’s railways, which in turn limited would-be festival attendees from neighboring countries.

Though the beer consumption saw a drop on par with the number of attendees, crime was also significantly reduced, down nine percent from last year. That’s something to celebrate – with beer.