Michelob Ultra is now America’s top-selling beer, overtaking Modelo Especial in U.S. retail sales by volume as of September 14, according to Circana data cited by CNN.
Anheuser-Busch credited the rise to aggressive marketing, including star endorsements like Lionel Messi and the rollout of Michelob Ultra Zero, its new non-alcoholic option.
For over 20 years, @MichelobULTRA has redefined what a superior light beer can be.
— Anheuser-Busch (@AnheuserBusch) September 22, 2025
Now it’s officially America’s #1-selling beer. 🥇🍺 pic.twitter.com/1EFTvQyAiZ
The brand’s growth is a relief for the company, which has struggled since the Bud Light boycott over its controversial marketing partnership with a transgender influencer. That misstep cost Bud Light its decades-long lead in U.S. beer sales.
Anheuser-Busch announced Monday that Michelob Ultra is now the best-selling beer in the U.S., claiming the top spot from Modelo Especial.https://t.co/9T3jY0VJs8 pic.twitter.com/icPKtvwV7E
— NBC4 Columbus (@nbc4i) September 23, 2025
Modelo’s dominance, meanwhile, appears to be waning. Constellation Brands, Modelo’s parent company, warned that President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown has dampened sales among Latino consumers, who make up half its U.S. customer base.
Despite Michelob Ultra’s rise, the industry faces headwinds. Beer sales overall fell nearly 5% in the first half of 2025, according to the National Beer Wholesalers Association.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
