In a recent development, Boston Beer is facing potential damages of $175.5 million after a jury ruled in favor of packaging supplier Ardagh Metal Packaging. The lawsuit alleged that Boston Beer breached a contract for aluminum can purchases between 2021 and 2025 by failing to meet the minimum purchase requirement. Boston Beer has denied the claim and stated its intention to pursue post-trial motions and appellate remedies.
The $175.5 million fine also includes a counter claim filed by Boston Beer against Ardagh, accusing the supplier of delivering aluminum cans with material defects that did not meet the agreed terms and specifications under their supply agreement.
As Boston Beer prepares to report its first quarter 2026 results on April 30, the company is assessing the financial implications of the ruling and plans to pay the fine using available cash reserves.
The original lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, with the jury’s commentary on the case remaining under seal.