Anheuser-Busch laying off almost 200 workers in Medford

The layoffs are due to a transition to a new distributor in Massachusetts.

The nation’s largest brewing company, which owns multiple brands such as Budweiser, Michelob, Stella Artois, and Bud Light, is laying off nearly 200 Massachusetts employees.

On Thursday, Anheuser-Busch announced it is closing its wholesale production at AB One at 440 Riverside Ave. in Medford as it transitions to a new Massachusetts-based distributor, Quality Beverage.

“We continuously assess our operational footprint to ensure our entire system is set up for long-term success,” said Simon Wuestenberg, U.S. chief sales officer at Anheuser-Busch, in a statement. “The transition of these operations will ensure that Anheuser-Busch and our network of independent distributors will continue to drive the growth of our iconic portfolio of brands while providing world-class service to our retail customers across Massachusetts.”

According to the notice provided to the state, Anheuser-Busch plans to lay off 193 employees, which will go into effect between Nov. 1 and Nov. 14.

A spokesperson for Anheuser-Busch said the company is working with Quality Beverage to ensure a “smooth transition” for its operations and local teams, including some job opportunities for Boston-based employees, but did not say how many.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with Anheuser-Busch into the greater Boston area and to represent its industry-leading brands in the marketplace,” said Carl and Carmine Martignetti, principals of Martignetti Companies, which owns Quality Beverage, in a statement.

They continued, “We are proud to be a part of Anheuser-Busch’s best-in-class nationwide distribution network, and we appreciate the confidence Anheuser-Busch is demonstrating in us through this expanded partnership.”

Quality Beverage, acquired by Martignetti Companies in 2023, distributes beer and alternative beverages in Massachusetts. The Wetterau family owned the company, which operates from its headquarters in Taunton and distribution centers in Auburn and Chicopee.

The company serves about 3,200 accounts and has a portfolio of more than 400 brands.

Anheuser-Busch, founded in 1852, is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. In 2008, it was acquired by Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV, based in Belgium. The company owns multiple global brands and is the largest brewer in the world.