A-B to Offer Cash-Back Rebates on C-store Beer Purchases

ST. LOUIS — In partnership with Ibotta, a mobile shopping app, Anheuser-Busch (A-B) will offer beer shoppers cash-back rebates on purchases made at convenience stores and other outlets.

The partnership, slated to run through February 2018, will provide Ibotta shoppers over the age of 21 with special offers on the sale of beer at convenience, grocery and liquor stores, as well as bars and restaurants, where legally permitted across the United States.

Anheuser-Busch views the partnership as a way to boost brand engagement, loyalty and sales.

“We prioritize innovation at Anheuser-Busch and look for ways to use it to enhance the consumer experience,” said Michael Zacharias, vice president of trade marketing, category leadership and sales technology for A-B. “Our goal is to lead our industry in digital and mobile technology.”

Currently in the Ibotta app, consumers can earn up to $5 cash back on a number of Anheuser-Busch brands, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Shock Top, Michelob ULTRA and Stella Artois.

In states where legally permitted, shoppers over the age of 21 can redeem the cash rebates upon verifying their age. Once confirmed, shoppers can access the cash rebates for Anheuser-Busch beers on either iOS or Android smartphones, according to the announcement.

Whether they are ordering at a bar or shopping at the nearest convenience, grocery or liquor store, Zacharias added that this new partnership allows Anheuser-Busch “to deliver compelling offers and content from our brands to a shopper’s mobile device as part of their shopping trip.”

Ibotta founder and CEO Bryan Leach added: “This partnership is a clear indication that the beer, wine and spirits market is moving toward new innovations in technology to give brands and their consumers the biggest bang for their buck.”

Ibotta describes itself as “a free app that pays you cash for everyday purchases.” Users unlock rebates and then submit receipts verifying their purchases to receive the cash back.