Paulaner Brewery

The Paulaner Brauerei München GmbH & Co. KGaA traces its origins to 1634 when the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin established a brewery in Munich. The friars brewed beer to support their monastery and provide alms to the poor, adhering to the Benedictine principle that monastic life should be self-sufficient. Over nearly four centuries, this monastic operation grew into one of Germany's largest brewing groups while retaining its original name and location at the Nockherberg site in the Au district.

Today the company operates as a private enterprise under the ownership of the Schörghuber Group, which acquired a majority stake in 1982 and later consolidated full control. Despite changes in ownership structure, the brewery maintains strict adherence to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516 for its core products. It holds a rare distinction as one of only six breweries permitted to serve beer at the Oktoberfest festival, supplying approximately nine of the 32 main tents each year.

The organization manages a diverse portfolio that includes the historic Salvator Doppelbock, widely considered the original of its style, alongside seasonal offerings like the Oktoberfest Märzen and everyday lagers such as Original Münchner. While it ranks sixth among Germany's best-selling beers by volume, Paulaner has expanded its reach through international subsidiaries including Paulaner USA and strategic partnerships with distributors in Asia and North America. [edit]

The brewery aims to preserve the traditional Bavarian art of brewing while delivering high-quality beverages to consumers worldwide. Its production philosophy centers on using natural ingredients and maintaining consistency across all batches without artificial additives. The organization also focuses on sustainability initiatives within its facilities and promotes responsible consumption practices globally. [edit]

The brewery began operations in 1634 after the Capuchin friars received permission from Duke Maximilian I to brew beer. They used the proceeds to fund their monastery and feed the hungry, establishing a charitable tradition that continues today. The facility remained in the same location near the Isar River for over three hundred years before expanding its production capabilities significantly in the late nineteenth century.

During the twentieth century, the brewery survived World War II and the subsequent division of Germany without interruption. In 1982, the Schörghuber family investment group purchased a controlling interest, bringing modern management techniques to the historic operation. This acquisition allowed for significant expansion into export markets while preserving the core recipes developed by the monks.

Recent years have seen the company deepen its ties with major cultural institutions in Munich. In August 2026, Paulaner hosted a Lederhosen photo shoot with FC Bayern Munich players to celebrate local heritage. The brewery also announced a long-term partnership in December 2025 to become the official supplier of the Audi Formula 1 Team, a move designed to enhance its premium image in international markets. [edit]