New sales data in the beer market reveals that Bud Light has been losing its position as the most preferred pilsner in the country, indicating the significant impact that mass boycotts have had on one of America’s top-selling beers. The pilsner, owned by German brewing company Anheuser-Busch, now ranks third among beers sold in the U.S., trailing behind Modelo Especial and Michelob Ultra. Bud Light’s market share has declined to 6.5%, compared to 7.3% for Michelob Ultra and 9.7% for Modelo, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. The decline in sales was attributed to consumer backlash following the brand’s controversial partnership with a transgender social media influencer, which led to a shift in consumer preferences towards other beer options.

During the critical period between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, Modelo Especial outsold Bud Light, marking a significant blow to the once-popular brand. The fallout from the partnership with the transgender influencer led to the firing of the company’s former vice president of marketing, but the damage to Bud Light’s reputation persisted. The boycott against the brand sparked broader conversations about cancel culture and virtue signaling, with other companies facing similar backlash for their perceived departures from customer expectations. Despite the decline in Bud Light sales, Anheuser-Busch remains optimistic about its overall portfolio, with Michelob Ultra holding the second spot in sales and upcoming marketing efforts focused on major sporting events to drive growth.