American beer drinkers lament demise of iconic brand after 177 years as many cite 'mistake'
Schlitz beer, a once-iconic American brand, will brew its final batch on May 23 after 177 years. Many consumers attribute its decline to a controversial formula change in the 1970s, which they refer to as 'the Schlitz mistake.' The brand, which peaked in popularity post-World War II, has faced increasing competition and declining sales over the decades.
- ▪Schlitz beer will brew its last batch on May 23, 2026, after 177 years.
- ▪The decline of Schlitz is often linked to a formula change in the 1970s aimed at cost-cutting.
- ▪Schlitz was once one of America's dominant beer brands, especially popular after World War II.
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Beer American beer drinkers lament demise of iconic brand after 177 years as many cite 'mistake' Final barrel rolls out May 23 after decades-long decline beginning with cost-cutting formula change in 1970s By Teresa Mull Fox News Published May 20, 2026 4:24pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video FIFA fueling beer boom- Anheuser-Busch prepares for World Cup demand FOX Business correspondent Grady Trimble reports on Anheueser-Busch's preparations for the FIFA World Cup as official beer partner and the surge in alcohol consumption in the host cities on 'Mornings with Maria.' NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! A beer once synonymous with American households is officially reaching the end of the line, with the final batch of…
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