Budweiser Budvar Brewery Claims to Make Original Budweiser, Dismisses US Version

The Budweiser Budvar brewery in České Budějovice, Czech Republic, asserts that it produces the original Budweiser beer, while labeling the American Budweiser as "irrelevant." This claim is at the heart of a long-standing trademark dispute between Budweiser Budvar and Anheuser-Busch, the maker of the US Budweiser, over the right to use the Budweiser name.

The legal battle, which has been ongoing for 127 years, has seen Anheuser-Busch maintain the rights to the Budweiser brand in the United States, while the Czech brewery now owns the rights to the name in most of Europe. The conflict has recently shifted to Africa, where the two companies are competing for the Budweiser trademark.

Despite the ongoing legal disputes, Budweiser Budvar continues to draw a significant number of beer tourists, with an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 visitors annually. The historic center of České Budějovice is considered one of the best places to enjoy freshly served Budweiser Budvar, with numerous bars and restaurants offering the beer.

Why this matters: The Budweiser trademark dispute highlights the complexities of international trademark law and the challenges faced by companies operating in global markets. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for both breweries and their ability to expand their brands in different regions.

As the legal dispute between Budweiser Budvar and Anheuser-Busch continues, the Czech brewery remains steadfast in its claim to be the producer of the original Budweiser beer. The historic city of České Budějovice serves as evidence of the brewery's legacy, attracting tens of thousands of beer enthusiasts each year who seek to experience the authentic taste of Budweiser Budvar in its birthplace.

Key Takeaways

• Budweiser Budvar claims to produce the original Budweiser beer, while labeling US Budweiser as "irrelevant".
• A 127-year trademark dispute between Budweiser Budvar and Anheuser-Busch over the Budweiser name continues.
• Budweiser Budvar owns the Budweiser name rights in most of Europe, while Anheuser-Busch holds the rights in the US.
• Budweiser Budvar attracts 50,000-60,000 beer tourists annually to its historic brewery in České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
• The Budweiser trademark dispute highlights the complexities of international trademark law and global market challenges.