The Chicago-based brewer was acquired by A-B InBev in 2011

Goose Island, the Anheuser-Busch InBev-owned US beer brand, will be launched on draught in the UK for the first time after the company signed a deal with Greene King. 

A-B InBev has agreed to hand exclusive on- and off-trade distribution rights for the Goose Island portfolio in England and Wales to the Suffolk-based brewer and pub operator, the companies announced today (15 July). The range includes Goose Island IPA, Honkers Ale and 312 Urban Wheat. 

The brand, which has so far only been available in bottles in the UK, will initially be on draught exclusively in Greene King's pubs from October.

Iain Newell, A-B InBev UK's on-trade and route to market director, said: “We are looking forward to working with them (Greene King) to develop Goose Island in the UK and tap into the strong growth in the craft beer market.” 

A-B InBev acquired Chicago-based craft brewer Goose Island in 2011 for US$38.8m. Its founder, John Hall, stepped down as CEO in late 2012 to help the Budweiser brewer establish a craft beer advisory board. 

Goose Island's packaging has also been given a refresh to coincide with the move to Greene King. The brand is currenly handled by James Clay in the UK, which will continue to supply “certain specialist on-trade customers”.