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San Francisco, CA - Chobani Inc. founder Hamdi Ulukaya announced Friday that he has acquired the historic Anchor Brewing Co., based in San Francisco, which closed its doors last year. Ulukaya called the brewery "the grand jewel" and pledged to "bring it back stronger than ever before."

Ulukaya made the announcement via a video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. In the video, he explained that an article about Anchor's closure caught his attention. Upon visiting the brewery, he was struck by its significance and potential. "It might be old, it might be given up on, but it is the grand jewel," he said.

"It's the essence of San Francisco, it's the essence of this country, that we can always bring it back stronger, better than ever before," Ulukaya added.

Anchor Brewing Co., which claims to be the oldest craft brewery in the United States, ceased operations on July 30, 2023. Founded by German pioneer Gottlieb Brekle in 1849, the brewery began in an old beer-and-billiards saloon and was named Anchor in 1896 after being purchased by another German brewer.

Known for its iconic Anchor Steam beer, California Lager, and Liberty Ale, the brewery's closure was a significant loss to the craft beer community. Its website currently reads, "Anchor Brewing Co. is closed. Goodbye!"

Sam Singer, a spokesman for the brewery, expressed optimism about the acquisition. "It's a great day for Anchor Brewing Co. and San Francisco," Singer told Law360. "Anchor is deeply pleased that Hamdi Ulukaya has purchased the Anchor Brewing Co. His commitment to the brewery and its history in San Francisco will be important to future generations of San Franciscans and Californians."

Ulukaya could not be immediately reached for comment.

In December, Ulukaya's Chobani announced plans to acquire ready-to-drink coffee producer La Colombe for $900 million. The deal aims to grow the La Colombe brand while expanding Chobani's investment in the coffee sector. Under the terms, La Colombe will continue to operate as an independent brand within Chobani LLC.

Chobani has a history of significant investments, including a more than $750 million investment from TPG Capital in 2014.

The acquisition of Anchor Brewing Co. marks Ulukaya's latest venture, promising a revival of a cherished San Francisco institution.