A History Of The Miller Brewing Company
The Miller Brewing Company started out as a small family concern in Milwaukee in 1855. Frederick Miller, who would give the company its name, bought out the Plank Road brewery along the Menomonee River. The location was chosen because it would allow the owners to transport the raw materials into the factory more easily. The company remained in the hands of the Miller family until 1866. Lorraine John Mulberger sold her controlling interest in the mid 60s. Mulberger, Miller’s granddaughter, opposed the use of alcohol. W.R. Grace and Company bought the shares and held them until 1969 when Phillip Morris bought the company out in 1969. The Miller Brewing Company left American hands in 2002 when a new company, South African Breweries, bought them out. Altria, the company that was once Phillip Morris, still retains enough shares to vote in Miller’s board elections. Miller is known for its Miller Genuine Draft and Miller Lite products. MillerCoors handles its distribution. The distribution company is a joint company between MolsenCoors and Miller to achieve greater efficiency and reduce costs. Today, the logo is still seen in bars across the United States. A person can go to almost any bar and order a Miller Genuine Draft
