One of America’s most iconic beer brands, Yuengling, is bringing its long-awaited beer portfolio to Illinois in early 2025. Beer enthusiasts across the state can soon enjoy the tastes of the nation’s oldest brewery. This latest expansion is a significant milestone in Yuengling’s ongoing Midwest growth strategy.
A Tradition of Brewing Excellence Since 1829
Yuengling, officially D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., has been a family-owned and operated brewery since its inception nearly two centuries ago. Known as America’s Oldest Brewery, Yuengling has become a household name synonymous with quality and tradition. Headquartered in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, the company boasts a rich history of crafting beloved beers that strike the perfect balance between taste and craftsmanship.
Yuengling operates from two breweries in Pottsville and one in Tampa, Florida. Over the past decade, the company has been gradually expanding its footprint to serve beer lovers beyond its original East Coast stronghold. The latest move into Illinois opens a new chapter for the heritage brewery, marking it as a key player in the Midwest beer market.
Illinois Welcomes Yuengling’s Beloved Portfolio
Beginning in late January 2025, Illinois residents will be able to find Yuengling’s signature brews on draft at select restaurants and bars across the state. Over the subsequent months, these offerings will expand to stores, making packaged products widely available for at-home enjoyment.
Among the beers Illinoisans can look forward to are:
Yuengling Traditional Lager – The flagship amber lager loved for its rich malt flavor.
Light Lager – A lighter yet equally flavorful option for those seeking a crisp, refreshing drink.
Golden Pilsner – A smooth, versatile brew with mild hop character.
Black and Tan – A unique combination of dark roasted malts and golden ale for a bold, distinctive taste.
FLIGHT by Yuengling – A highlight of the portfolio, FLIGHT is a low-calorie, low-carb beer designed for health-conscious drinkers who don’t want to compromise on flavor.
Yuengling is entering Illinois with its classic portfolio and promises of maintaining its dedication to quality and ensuring every sip delivers an exceptional beer experience.
Why Illinois is the Perfect Fit for Yuengling
“For years, we have seen an overwhelming desire for our portfolio from our most loyal fans in Illinois who have been eagerly awaiting the brand’s arrival,” noted Wendy Yuengling, Chief Administrative Officer and a sixth-generation family member of the D.G. Yuengling & Son legacy.
Illinois has a vibrant and growing beer culture, making it an ideal market for Yuengling to tap into. With an increasing number of craft beer enthusiasts and bars featuring American lagers, the state offers a prime audience for Yuengling’s high-quality and affordable beer.
Additionally, Illinois shares Yuengling’s cultural appreciation for heritage and quality—values that have fostered a growing excitement around the brand’s introduction to the state.
Midwest Expansion Success Paves the Way
Yuengling’s move to Illinois follows the successful rollout of its beers in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma in 2023. This major market entry signifies Yuengling’s ambition to bring its products to beer drinkers across the entire Midwest. The involvement of The Yuengling Company—a separate joint venture with Molson Coors established in 2020—has allowed Yuengling to scale production and distribution while maintaining the quality fans have come to expect.
“This is a testament to our commitment to grow in this excellent beer region,” stated Colin Callahan, General Manager of The Yuengling Company. “We are focused on continuing to bring Illinois residents the rich tradition and premium quality that the Oldest Brewery in America is known for.”
Community Events and Activations Ahead
Yuengling plans to celebrate its arrival in Illinois with a variety of community-focused events and activations across the state in 2025. While details of these events remain under wraps, beer lovers should keep an eye on Yuengling’s social media channels for announcements and updates.
By participating in these events, Illinois beer fans will have the opportunity to experience the company’s values firsthand and engage with the brand’s legacy of exceptional brewing.
Explore the Yuengling Legacy
Yuengling’s expansion into Illinois isn’t just about shipping beer to a new market—it’s about extending a nearly 200-year legacy of tradition, quality, and family-owned pride. For those unfamiliar with Yuengling, now is the perfect time to explore what makes this brewery so iconic. Touring the brewery in Pottsville or visiting the Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen in Tampa are great ways to experience the brand’s rich history and craftsmanship.
Illinois fans can rest assured that Yuengling’s hallmark brewing tradition will now be closer to home, with beers crafted to suit any palate.
Mark your calendars—late January 2025 marks the start of Yuengling’s next chapter in the Midwest. Grab a pint or a pack, and raise your glass to a legendary American brewery’s expansion into the Land of Lincoln.