What Does Founders Brewing Co. Do?

Total employees210
HeadquartersGrand Rapids
FoundedN/A

Founders Brewing Co. was established in 1997 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers, who set out to brew complex, flavorful beers. After initial struggles, they found success by focusing on brewing beers they were passionate about. Today, Founders is one of the most recognized craft breweries in the United States, celebrated for its bold ales and lagers, including iconic brands like All Day IPA, Breakfast Stout, and the barrel-aged KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout). The brewery emphasizes quality, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for the craft. Founders operates its main brewery and taproom in Grand Rapids, a second taproom in Detroit, and distributes its beers across all 50 U.S. states and internationally. In 2019, Mahou San Miguel, a Spanish brewing company, acquired a majority stake (90%) in Founders, supporting its continued growth while aiming to preserve its craft identity and brewing philosophy.

Where Is Founders Brewing Co.'s Headquarters?

HQ Function

Primary brewing operations, main taproom with restaurant and live music, retail store (The Company Store), and corporate/administrative offices.

Notable Features:

Expansive main taproom often cited as one of the best in the US, large outdoor beer garden, regular live music performances, deli-style food menu, on-site Company Store for merchandise and beer-to-go, visible brewing operations offering a glimpse into the production process.

Work Culture:

A dynamic and fast-paced environment driven by a passion for craft beer. Emphasis on quality, innovation, and community engagement. The culture aims to be inclusive and collaborative, reflecting the spirit of the craft brewing industry. The taproom side offers a lively, customer-facing experience.

HQ Significance:

The Grand Rapids headquarters is the heart of Founders Brewing Co., representing its origin and core identity. It's a major production facility, a significant tourist destination in West Michigan, and a vital part of the local and national craft beer scene.

Values Reflected in HQ: Commitment to community (large public taproom, event space), passion for beer (visible brewing, extensive beer list), quality (state-of-the-art brewing equipment), and growth (continuous expansion of facilities).

Location:

Founders Brewing Co. has a significant global reach, with its beers distributed across all 50 U.S. states and in over 30 countries worldwide. This international presence is facilitated by its partnership with Mahou San Miguel, which enhances distribution channels and market access, particularly in Europe and other key international markets. Globally supported functions include sales, international marketing, brand management, and logistics to ensure their craft beers reach a diverse international consumer base.

Street Address:

235 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW

City:

Grand Rapids

State/Province:

Michigan

Country:

USA

Where Else Does Founders Brewing Co. Operate Around the World?

Detroit, Michigan, USA

Address: 456 Charlotte St, Detroit, MI 48201

To extend the Founders brand experience to the Detroit metropolitan area, engage with the local community, and serve as another hub for craft beer enthusiasts in Michigan.

Buying Intent Signals for Founders Brewing Co.

Highperformr Signals uncover buying intent and give you clear insights to target the right accounts at the right time — helping your sales, marketing, and GTM teams close more deals, faster.

Notable news
Hiring actively
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
*Example signal, not calculated in real time

Who's Leading Founders Brewing Co.? Meet the Executive Team

As of April 2025, Founders Brewing Co.' leadership includes:

Elton Slone - Chief Executive Officer
Mike Stevens - Co-Founder
Dave Engbers - Co-Founder
Sandy Anaokar - Chief Marketing Officer
Shawn Welch - Chief Operating Officer
Jeremy Kosmicki - Brewmaster

Who's Investing in Founders Brewing Co.?

Founders Brewing Co. has been backed by several prominent investors over the years, including:

Mahou San Miguel

What Leadership Changes Has Founders Brewing Co. Seen Recently?

Hire0
Exits0

In the past 12 months (approximately May 2023 - May 2024), Founders Brewing Co. has not had major publicly announced C-suite executive hires or departures. The leadership team has shown stability following key appointments in the preceding period, such as the current CEO in late 2022 and the Chief Marketing Officer in early 2023.

What Technology (Tech Stack) Is Used byFounders Brewing Co.?

Discover the tools Founders Brewing Co. uses. Highperformr reveals the technologies powering your target accounts — helping your sales, marketing, and GTM teams prioritize smarter and close faster.

Founders Brewing Co. Email Formats and Examples

Founders Brewing Co. likely uses standard corporate email address formats. Common patterns include first name initial followed by last name, or first name separated from last name by a dot, all followed by '@foundersbrewing.com'.

[first].[last]@foundersbrewing.com

Format

jane.doe@foundersbrewing.com

Example

75%

Success rate

What's the Latest News About Founders Brewing Co.?

BrewpublicApril 3, 2024

Founders Brewing Co. news title: Red’s Rye IPA Returns to Founders Brewing Co.’s Lineup

Founders Brewing Co. announced the return of its popular seasonal beer, Red's Rye IPA, to its lineup. The beer is available from April through July, delighting fans who anticipate its comeback each year....more

MiBizMarch 18, 2024

Founders Brewing Co. news title: Founders Brewing KBS Mac & Cheese Returns to Meijer Stores

Founders Brewing Co. is re-releasing its KBS Mackinac Fudge Macaroni & Cheese product in partnership with Meijer. The popular item will be available for a limited time in Meijer stores across the Midwest....more

BrewboundFebruary 27, 2024

Founders Brewing Co. news title: Founders Brewing Co. Releases Más Agave Clásica Lime Hard Seltzer

Founders Brewing Co. expanded its beverage offerings with the launch of Más Agave Clásica Lime, a premium hard seltzer inspired by the classic margarita. It is available in 6-packs of 12 oz. cans and on draft....more

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