San Antonio, January 31, 2026
Future Proof Brands LLC, known for BeatBox Beverages, plans to lay off 158 employees following its acquisition by Anheuser-Busch InBev. The layoffs will occur between February 21 and March 7, impacting its East Austin headquarters. The acquisition, valued at $490 million, gives AB InBev an 85% stake in the rapidly growing drink maker, which saw over $340 million in projected sales by late 2025. This reflects growing trends in the ready-to-drink beverage market and significant industry consolidation.
San Antonio, Texas – Over 150 Layoffs Hit Boozy Texas Drink Maker Following Acquisition Plans
San Antonio, Texas – Future Proof Brands LLC, the maker of BeatBox Beverages, has announced plans to lay off 158 employees from its East Austin headquarters. The layoffs are expected to begin between February 21 and March 7, 2026. This decision follows the company’s recent acquisition by Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the parent company of Bud Light and Michelob Ultra. The $490 million deal, announced in December 2025, grants AB InBev an 85% stake in BeatBox, with an option to acquire the remaining shares within five years. The acquisition is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Once completed, BeatBox will join AB InBev’s portfolio, which includes brands like Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Cutwater Spirits, and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer. Founded in 2011 as an MBA project at the University of Texas, BeatBox has become one of the fastest-growing ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages in the country. By November 2025, the company projected over $340 million in U.S. retail sales, representing a growth rate of more than 50% year-over-year. BeatBox offers party punches and hard teas in more than 13 flavors, with an alcohol content of 11.1%.
Impact of Acquisition on Workforce
The impending layoffs at Future Proof Brands LLC are a direct consequence of the acquisition by AB InBev. The company has notified the Texas Workforce Commission of the layoffs, with all affected employees informed of their expected separation dates. The layoffs are permanent, and the company has stated that the affected employees do not have bumping rights under the employee handbook or company policy.
Background on BeatBox Beverages
BeatBox Beverages, established in 2011, has rapidly gained popularity in the RTD beverage market. The company first garnered national attention after appearing on the television show “Shark Tank” and receiving backing from Texas billionaire Mark Cuban. Its product line includes party punches and hard teas available in over 13 flavors, each with an alcohol content of 11.1%. The acquisition by AB InBev is expected to further expand BeatBox’s reach and integrate it into a broader portfolio of alcoholic beverages.
Industry Context
The acquisition of BeatBox Beverages by AB InBev reflects a broader trend in the beverage industry, where major companies are increasingly investing in the growing RTD market. For instance, in May 2024, Sazerac completed the acquisition of BuzzBallz LLC, a rapidly growing beverage business known for its innovative pre-mixed cocktails. Similarly, in April 2025, Johnson Brothers entered the Texas market by acquiring Maverick Beverage Company, a leading distributor of fine wine and spirits. These strategic acquisitions indicate a significant shift in consumer preferences towards convenient, ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.
Conclusion
The planned layoffs at Future Proof Brands LLC highlight the workforce adjustments that often accompany major acquisitions in the beverage industry. As AB InBev integrates BeatBox Beverages into its portfolio, the company aims to leverage the brand’s growth and popularity in the RTD market. The full impact of this acquisition on the local workforce and the broader industry will unfold in the coming months. Engaging with and supporting local businesses during these transitions can contribute positively to the San Antonio economy.
FAQ
What is the reason for the layoffs at Future Proof Brands LLC?
The layoffs are a direct consequence of the acquisition of Future Proof Brands LLC by Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev). The company has announced plans to lay off 158 employees from its East Austin headquarters, with layoffs expected to begin between February 21 and March 7, 2026.
When is the acquisition of BeatBox Beverages by AB InBev expected to close?
The acquisition is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
What is the history of BeatBox Beverages?
Founded in 2011 as an MBA project at the University of Texas, BeatBox Beverages has become one of the fastest-growing ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages in the country. The company first gained national attention after appearing on “Shark Tank” and receiving backing from Texas billionaire Mark Cuban.
What other companies have been involved in recent acquisitions in the RTD beverage market?
In May 2024, Sazerac completed the acquisition of BuzzBallz LLC, a rapidly growing beverage business known for its innovative pre-mixed cocktails. In April 2025, Johnson Brothers entered the Texas market by acquiring Maverick Beverage Company, a leading distributor of fine wine and spirits.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Future Proof Brands LLC |
| Product | BeatBox Beverages |
| Number of Layoffs | 158 employees |
| Layoff Period | Between February 21 and March 7, 2026 |
| Acquiring Company | Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) |
| Acquisition Value | $490 million |
| AB InBev’s Stake | 85% with an option to acquire the remaining shares within five years |
| Projected Sales by November 2025 | Over $340 million in U.S. retail sales |
| Product Offerings | Party punches and hard teas in more than 13 flavors with 11.1% alcohol content |
| Acquisition Closing Date | Expected in the first quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions |
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