Modelo Especial soared to be the #1 beer in America. Then came Trump’s immigration crackdowns

In April 2024, Salvador Gutierrez got a big surprise. 

The Oxnard, California-based food vendor, who made his living selling sweet drinks called Agua Frescas, received a new customized street cart and $5,000 to elevate his business. The check came courtesy of a new product line from the Modelo beer brand, according to a press release from the company. “I started this business to make ends meet but what I wasn’t prepared for was the amount of love and support I received from my community.