New Belgium CEO Steps Down; Will Bell’s Change Because of It?

We got the news that New Belgium - the U.S. Beverage company that currently owns Bell's Brewery - will have a new CEO soon, as Steve Fechheimer has resigned to pursue new opportunities.

So with anew void in the world of Bell's Brewery, does that mean any changes might be coming?

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Colorado-based brewery New Belgium purchased Bell's Brewery, and Upper Hand Brewing in 2021 after Bell's founder Larry Bell announced he would be retiring from the craft beer game.

Initially, New Belgium said no changes would come to the breweries, and so far, things have basically stayed within the norm - aside from a larger national footprint of distribution.

But CEO Steve Fechheimer announced earlier this week that he would be stepping away from the company after just six years in the position, and just two years with Bell's.

"Steve's Leadership has been vital to the success we've seen together in the past two years. From the very beginning, he has recognized the special elements of what makes Bell's who we are - the people, the brands, the traditions - and together we have carried those into this new era." - Carrie Yunker, Bell's Executive Vice President

He joined New Belgium in 2017, and actually oversaw THEIR sale to worldwide beverage distributor Lion, who also owns beverage brands in Australia and New Zealand.

Fechheimer then oversaw the acquisition of Bell's and Upper Hand in 2021.

But now with Fechheimer out, and a new CEO likely inbound, does that mean changes are coming to Bell's?

Not likely... at least, not any time soon.

"He will be missed dearly, but we're confident in our plans and our path forward. We thank him for his years of leadership and his approach to the stewardship of Bell's, and we wish him the very best in what comes next."

Yunker will remain Bell's top executive, and for now, New Belgium's Chief Financial Officer Danielle McLarnon, who has been with the company for 19 years, will serve as interim CEO beginning on Aug. 1.

"It's been an honor to lead New Belgium for the past six years. I'm immensely proud of our team, and I'm excited for New Belgium's next chapter built on the solid foundation we've established so far." - Steve Fechheimer