Anheuser-Busch Supports Federal Government's Teen Drinking Prevention Campaign

Campaign Coincides with Data Released Today Showing Efforts to Curb Underage Drinking Are Working

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 10, 2009) - Anheuser-Busch is continuing its commitment to preventing underage drinking by supporting the federal government's "We Don't Serve Teens" campaign.  Initiated in 2006, "We Don't Serve Teens," provides parents, neighborhoods, business community, and service organizations with tips and information to limit teen access to alcohol.  This year's campaign runs throughout September.

As part of its efforts, Anheuser-Busch donates ad space in national publications, including Time and USA Today, to share the government's important public service message about the consequences of underage drinking.  Anheuser-Busch also will cover the cost of 650 outdoor board placements carrying the campaign's message across the nation.   

"A crucial part of preventing underage drinking is reaching out to adults and asking them to do their part by not buying alcohol for teens or providing it to them at parties.  It's unsafe, illegal and irresponsible," said Carol Clark, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Anheuser-Busch.  "We''re proud to support this important campaign that encourages parents and other adults to talk with teens and relay a clear message that underage drinking will not be tolerated."

New data released today from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports a significant decline in adolescent past-month drinking.  The annual report is a key reflection of the ongoing efforts being made by government agencies, law enforcement, community organizations and companies such as Anheuser-Busch that work to reduce underage drinking.

The SAMHSA survey shows:

• Youth past-month drinking declined significantly from 15.9 percent in 2007 to 14.6 percent in 2008; and

• Youth binge drinking declined significantly from 9.7 percent in 2007 to 8.8 percent in 2008; and

• Youth heavy drinking went from 2.3 percent in 2007 to two percent in 2008.

"Our country continues to make great progress in the fight against underage drinking, but there's more work to do," said Clark.  "As parents, we can make a difference by talking with our teens, reminding them to make smart choices, and not providing alcohol to them, even for special occasions."

Since 1982, Anheuser-Busch and its wholesalers have invested more than $750 million in national advertising campaigns and community-based programs to promote responsible drinking and prevent alcohol abuse, including drunk driving. For more information on these efforts and the progress being made, visit www.beeresponsible.com.