Tippie MBAs have been known to frequent Iowa City’s bar scene to sip on a pint and discuss the day’s financial news or plot a new product launch. But it’s rare that we actually get a chance to sit down with the individuals responsible for bringing that beer to us.
This past week, several students from the full-time MBA were lucky enough to sit down with Goose Island Beer Company founder, John Hall. John, himself, is a graduate of the University of Iowa’s MBA program.
The ten of us at lunch asked about the recent decision to sell Goose Island to AnheuserBusch, which has stirred a bit of controversy among some beer-drinkers. John described it as a great opportunity to get Goose Island’s beers into the hands of far more people. Beer production is capital-intensive, and the partnership will allow Goose Island to expand its production considerably.
We also peppered John about the origins of 312 Urban Wheat Ale (it was a concept developed by his son, formerly the company’s head brewer), canning versus bottling beer (John noted the relative advantage of cans in protecting a beer from light and oxidation), and what exotic creations Goose Island is brewing right now (a sour ale!).
I for one, can’t wait to see what’s next for Goose Island as they embark on their next phase of growth. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to a visit to the Clybourn Brewery next time I’m in Chicago!
