----- Forwarded message from Mike Tschida -----
Subject: Press Release - "Schell's Acquires Grain Belt Brand"
From: Mike Tschida <mtschida(a)hpimarketing.com>
To: "schell's press releases" <mtschida(a)hpimarketing.com>
July 23, 2002
For immediate release:
August Schell Brewing Company in New Ulm, Minnesota has reached an
agreeement to purchase the Grain Belt beer brand.
"The timing of this purchase is ideal" said Ted Marti, President of
August Schell. "With the recent expansion of our brew house, storage and
packaging facilities, we will be able to seamlessly add the production of
Grain Belt. However, we must wait for government approval of the sale before
we are able to produce and distribute the beer. Hopefully the
process will move quickly so we can keep Grain Belt available. The bottom
line is we will be able to brew enough beer to satisfy the current and
future demand. It is our intention to continue the tradition of Grain Belt
and it's connection to the beer drinkers of the Upper Midwest, growing the
brand back to it's rightfull place in the market."
For the immediate future, the Schell brands and Grain Belt brand will be
operated as separate entities. "First and formost, we will not change the
recipe of Grain Belt. The taste will be the same popular American Premium
lager style that so many customers have enjoyed for generations." added
Marti.
"The Grain Belt brand will not change any of our strategies for Schell's
products. We fully expect this to strengthen the August Schell Brewing
Company, our distribution network and the rich tradition of brewing in
Minnesota. I'm pleased we are able to step up and save the brand. Preserving
the history of brewing in Minnesota is a big part of what we are all
about." Marti added.
For additional information please contact:
Ted Marti at August Schell Brewing Co. 507-354-5528
Release sent by HPI Marketing, Representing the interests of August Schell
Brewing Co.
----- End of forwarded message from Mike Tschida -----