WRIGLEYVILLE — No more Old Style at a Cubs game?
The future of the classic red, white and blue cans is unclear now that the team has signed an exclusive, multi-year marketing deal with Anheuser-Busch, effectively ending a 60-plus year relationship with Old Style, according to team spokesman Julian Green.
The new deal also means a 650-square-feet Budweiser sign, with script lettering, will go up in right field as early as next year, he said.
But whether or not Old Style beer will still be served in the stadium is up in the air. Green said he wouldn't rule out Old Style's return next season because the new beverage lineup hasn't been set with concession partner Levy Restaurants, he said.
The goal is "to provide a diverse portfolio of beers," something fans have been asking for, he said.
"It’s possible that Old Style could be one of those selections," Green said. "Obviously, with this [Budweiser] partnership, our goal is to promote our partner's brand."
Anheuser-Busch, which has partnered with the Cubs for more than 30 years, will maintain naming rights to the Budweiser bleachers and patio. Green would not give financial details on the deal.
And as far as a Budweiser sign potentially blocking rooftop views, Green said the team doesn't need a deal worked out with rooftops to move forward with the sign.
"The Budweiser sign going up is not contingent on the rooftop," he said.
The Cubs and Wrigley Field are 95 percent owned by a trust established for the benefit of the family of Joe Ricketts, owner and CEO of DNAinfo.com. Joe Ricketts has no direct involvement in the management of the iconic team.
