Today, the company is led by the fourth generation of the Matt family, Fred Matt. The focus of the company for the last 135 years has been to create beverages that delight our customers. The best part is enjoying one of our beers with you!
Photo: Nick Matt, Chairman (Left) & Fred Matt, President (Right)
Prohibition is called for under the 18th Amendment to the Constitution. The brewery survives by producing Utica Club soft drinks and several other non-alcoholic drinks. Other Utica breweries close.
The West End Brewing Co. is the first in the nation to obtain a license and the first to sell beer, Utica Club.
Walter Matt sees the need for modern marketing and advertising. The company introduces Schultz & Dooley, the "spokesmugs" of Utica Club, along with commercials featuring the voice of Jonathan Winters, which helped to increase sales by more than 50%.
The brewery tour center is opened up to the public.
The "Where It Really Swings" ad campaign is released, introducing a whole new generation to Utica Club.
The Brewery expands its product line with new brands Matt's Premium, Maximus, and Fort Schuyler. An Innovative new concept, the Beer Ball, is developed and takes the Northeast by storm.
The Boilermaker 15k Road Race is established.
Utica Club Light, one of the first light beers is introduced.
F.X. Matt begins to focus on the burgeoning craft movement and releases a new lager called "Saranac 1888", named for the upcoming 100th anniversary of the brewery.
Saranac Adirondack Lager is judged the top premium lager at The Great American Beer Festival. The Saranac brand becomes the company's flagship brand.
F.X. Matt introduces the first variety craft beer mixed pack, called Saranac Adirondack Trail Mix, which features 4 distinctly different styles of beer based on heritage recipes.
The brewery re-introduces Saranac "1888 Soft Drinks", based on original recipes, earning awards and gaining new fans around the globe.
$56M Brewery Expansion complete. Brewery adds new brewhouse, tank farm, and additional can line.
Clouded Dream IPA wins 4 Gold Medal
FX Matt purchases longtime contract partner, Flying Dog Brewery.
