Americans consume over 6.3 billion gallons of beer per year. For 2025, the top-selling beer is Michelob ULTRA, marking a shift in consumer preferences.
Since its debut in 2002, Michelob ULTRA has focused on light, balanced beer. The brand now leads the nation in sales across retail stores, bars, and restaurants, according to Circana and Nielsen data.
Kyle Norrington, chief commercial officer at Anheuser-Busch, credited the brand’s success to consistent investment and a focus on sports and active-lifestyle events. Michelob ULTRA has partnered with the PGA Tour for more than two decades and serves as the official beer sponsor for major events including Team USA, the NBA, the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, and the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
“Invest, learn, and execute,” Norrington said of the beer’s success. “That approach has turned Michelob ULTRA into an absolute rocket ship.”
The beer’s growth is reflected in the consumer market data. Circana reports Michelob ULTRA has increased a remarkable 15% since 2020, gaining over 2% market share in five years. Its new non-alcohol variant, Michelob ULTRA Zero, has also become one of the top-selling non-alcoholic beers in the U.S. in its first nine months. As non-alcholic beers explode in popularity, that number will surely only go up.
The brand has indicated future marketing initiatives will include continued investment in major sporting events, creative campaigns and a focus on converting brand awareness into repeat purchases. Michelob ULTRA will support Team USA at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina 2026 and the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Michelob ULTRA will also be a sponsor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The beer is brewed with barley malt, rice, hops, and pure-cultured yeast, offering 95 calories and 2.6 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making it an excellent option for a lesser-calorie beer. It contains no artificial flavors or colors. The brand markets itself to fitness-focused drinkers.
Anheuser-Busch, the nation’s largest brewer, also produces Budweiser, Bud Light, Busch Light, Stella Artois, and Cutwater, along with dozens of regional craft brands.
Michelob ULTRA’s rise to the top reflects two decades of disciplined brand investment and strategic marketing, redefining what Americans seek in a balanced, easy-drinking light beer.
Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.
