These massive multinationals can't compete and are forced to keep buying companies. The good news is that craft beer doesn't have a massive barrier to entry. I wouldn't be surprised if the principles of Eleysian start up a new one in a few years time.
And no doubt AB pays top dollar for their executives so I'm sure they won't fuck up Eleysians product.
It's partly a demographic problem as well. Younger generations aren't drinking AB Swill. Acquisition is clearly a smart move on their part (as long as they don't fuck up those businesses by pushing extreme growth which screws up the products… yeah, I ain't holding my breath either)
http://www.wsj.com/articles/budweiser-ditches-the-clydesdales-for-jay-z-1416784086