The majority of former Anchor Brewing employees have expressed their enthusiasm to return to the historic San Francisco brewery, following its recent acquisition by entrepreneur Hamdi Ulukaya. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), which represents the brewery’s workforce, announced this week that 77% of former staff are “ready and excited” to rejoin the team and revive the iconic Anchor Steam brand.

Anchor Brewing, considered America’s oldest craft brewery, was shuttered last summer after a long period of financial struggle. Despite efforts by workers to save the business, it seemed destined to become a part of brewing history—until Ulukaya, best known as the billionaire founder of Chobani, stepped in with plans to restore the brand and its beloved beers.

Strong staff support fuels comeback hopes

According to the ILWU, 30 out of 39 former employees have publicly committed to returning if offered a position under the new ownership. Their willingness to come back has sparked hope that Anchor’s comeback won’t just be about resurrecting a brand, but also reviving its heart and soul—its original workforce.

Former employee Thomas Delany said the return of the original staff would be the perfect chapter in Anchor’s rebirth. “No one knows better how to brew and market Anchor better than us,” he explained. “Imagine the return of the same great product that people have enjoyed for years being made by the same dedicated workers that have loved making this iconic beer for years.”

A symbol of pride for San Francisco

For many of Anchor’s workers, the brewery represented more than just a job—it was a community and a symbol of local pride. Former employee Denny Miller said hearing the news of Ulukaya’s purchase was a “dream come true.” He added: “It was a real loss for San Francisco when Anchor went away.”

Ryan Poulos, another former staff member, shared a similar sentiment. “Anchor was the best job I ever had and the people there were some of the best I have ever worked with. We all took pride in our work and in being part of a company that is so connected to San Francisco’s history. I would come back to Anchor Brewing in a heartbeat.”

Ulukaya’s vision and worker optimism

Ulukaya’s plans for Anchor include reviving its traditional branding and beer recipes while breathing new life into the brewery’s operations. The founder of Chobani has positioned himself as a people-focused leader, and his acquisition of Anchor is being welcomed as an act of preservation for a piece of American brewing heritage.

With overwhelming support from former employees and a committed new owner, Anchor Brewing appears poised to make a meaningful return—not just to taps and shelves, but to the heart of the San Francisco community. If all goes to plan, the revival of Anchor could become one of the most heartfelt comebacks in craft beer history.