Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.’s Post

Yes, it’s Groundhog Day; this story repeats itself. Over and over and over … New Belgium Brewing, best known for its Fat Tire ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, announced it has ceased operations at its Mission Bay brewpub and restaurant. A press release states the location has “suffered financially in recent years.” It’s only been open three+ years. Who did this store’s pro forma? While many wax sentimental about the death of Anchor Brewing last year … there have been many taprooms, brewpubs, and microbreweries that have been shuttered in the once gorgeous Bay Area over the past five years. It’s not the homeless — albeit a factor, it’s the exceptionally high costs — in every line item on a biz’s financials — and the social ignorance and political climate the stews like a bad recipe in the Bay’s cauldron. This malaise has effected sooo many industries — not just craft beer. Last year, Gump’s — the 166-year old retailer stated this may be their last year. This utter decay and market destruction is man-made AND woman-made. When I used to manage a 1,000+ retail stores, one of my many responsibilities was determining how our assets needed to be “redeployed.” This one would have been easy. In 2019 — pre-COVID-19, I would have passed on this market. It’s not too late for the San Francisco market. Yet we need to have the will and move swiftly — and consistently — for the next 25 years. Or it’ll continue to be Groundhog Day. And this story will simply repeat itself. “I left my heart n San Francisco. High on a hill, it calls to me.” — Tony Bennett #NewBelgium #BayArea #SanFrancisco #CraftBeer #NonAlc #BevAlc #NonCraft #Beer #Microbreweries #Taprooms #Brewpubs #ConsumerBehavior #BrandAwareness #ActionableInsights #BusinessInsights #DataAnalysis #PredictiveAnalytics #BusinessIntelligence #SocialCurrents Source: San Francisco Chronicle ✦ ✦ ✦ Stephen Carter King Chief of Growth and Marketing + Beerconomist • Sherpa • Team Leader • CEO Beerconomy & Co., beer market analyses and trends Steve@KingsCrossing.com ✦ Kings Crossing

As craft brewers and small business owners, the journey towards success in a rapidly changing market requires not only hard work and creativity, but also strategic foresight and adaptability. That is why Lotus Beverage Alliance is excited to discuss the successful strategies we are seeing among local brewpubs. Small breweries are still alive and well, they just require proper business planning. Led by industry experts and seasoned brewers, Don Marcil and Mike Paladino, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive and stay ahead of the game despite headwinds and industry consolidation. In this unique presentation, we will discuss: -Market Trends and Analysis Understand the ever-evolving landscape of the craft beverage market, including emerging trends, consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics. Gain actionable insights that will enable you to identify new opportunities and potential pitfalls. -Business Sustainability Learn effective techniques to ensure long-term business sustainability, including financial management, operational efficiency, and resource optimization. Discover how to strike the delicate balance between growth and maintaining the quality and integrity of your craft. -Marketing and Branding Strategies Uncover innovative approaches to differentiate your products in a crowded marketplace and captivate discerning consumers. -Industry Collaboration and Networking Harness strategic partnerships, and learn how sharing knowledge can drive mutual success and unlock new opportunities for growth. Don left his life as a graphic artist to pursue his dream of brewing beer. He enrolled in the American Brewers Guild in 2009 and did a 5 week apprenticeship in Portland Oregon at Hopworks Urban Brewery. In 2010 he was working from the bottom up washing kegs, cleaning brite tanks and fermentation vessels, packaging and finally mastering the hot side operations. During the 1000’s of batches brewed, Don was fortunate to learn many styles, techniques and gain the friendship of some incredible brewers. Mike became a professional brewer in 2002 in the great state of Oregon. He has won many awards for his craft brew, and is well known throughout the pro brewing community. His career entailed more than 15 years of brewing, the last three of which have included brewing beer & cidermaking at Sasquatch Brewery & New West Cider. Mike has personally opened multiple breweries throughout his career as a professional brewer. He now works with Lotus Beverage Alliance as a Brewery Design Consultant where he has helped dozens of new breweries plan and configure their brewing systems to fit their unique brewing styles and equipment needs. Huge thanks to Encompass Technologies, Boelter, & Gorman Smith Beverage Equipment for all your support on our Fall Virtual Conference. Join us in-person for CBP Connects | Half workshop, half networking Charleston, SC | December 4-6, 2023 Grab your spot now at https://cbpconnec

Charles Dorsey owns and runs Montgomery Brewing Company, an hour's drive southwest of Minneapolis, Minnesota in the farmland town of Montgomery. His brewery operates within the walls of the historical building that housed the original Montgomery Brewing Company. Known as Chuck, he stewards the brewing legacy of the town and the distinction of being among the 1% of craft breweries in the nation that are black-owned.  More than a business, the brewery is a balance between tradition and innovation. In a town that has become a steadfast supporter, Chuck wears the mantle of representing black-owned breweries with pride recognizing the significance of his role in an industry where diversity remains a rarity. Within the narrative of Montgomery Brewing, Chuck revels in the joy that beer, a timeless connector, brings people together. Through every challenge and triumph, he finds a source of fun and fulfillment in uniting individuals over shared experiences and finely crafted brews. As Chuck and his dedicated team enter the ninth year of operation navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the brewing industry, take a read of Action by Volume – Montgomery Brewing Company. In my Substack publication, Photo Stories w/ Anderson English https://lnkd.in/evkFYZhY Chuck answers some questions reflecting on the highs and lows of the journey, the financial challenges, and the universal day-to-day intricacies of brewery ownership. While operating in a rural landscape may pose unique challenges, from expanding distribution to diversifying revenue streams, Chuck also talks about his commitment to normalizing diversity from taproom, to label, to the beer industry itself, adding an extra layer of purpose and challenge to his endeavors.   #actionbyvolume #NB2A #minnesotacraftbrewersguild #brewersassociation

Ballast Point brewery was sold to Constellation Brands for $1 billion in 2015 … Yet craft beer sales ‘chinks in the armor’ we’re already showing in 2015 — craft beer was over-supplied in a crowded market. Constellation had made a huge mistake. They overpaid for a business in a declining marketplace — Constellation needed to cut their losses. Its distillery business was spun off to a new company, Cutwater Spirits, in 2017 and subsequently purchased by Anheuser-Busch in 2019. Also, in 2019, Kings & Convicts announced it was buying Ballast Point from Constellation. While Constellation took a huge haircut in selling to Chicago-based brewery Kings and Convicts for an “undisclosed price and terms,” a pittance of Constellation paid for Ballast Point a mere four years earlier. Now Kings & Convicts has closed Ballast Point brewery operations and subcontracts out all brewing, canning, packaging and distribution for Ballast Point. Across town in Chicagoland, Heineken was struggling with Lagunitas’s soft-sales and heavy expenses. A month ago, Lagunitas announced they’re closing the massive Chicago brewery, taproom and merch store. There’s more, too (notably CANarchy’s sale), as Monster Brewing is closing production facilities rght and left. And none of this is because of the pandemic. Tastes and habits stated changing 10 years ago. Never expand, or buy, in a declining market. The days of wine and roses are long-past. “Cha-cha-cha-changes, turn and face the stranger changes…” — David Bowie Source: Beerconomy PRO (Coming Soon!) #Beer #CraftBeer #NonAlcoholicBeer #Cider #Microbreweries #Taprooms #Brewpubs #Taverns #ConsumerBehavior #BrandAwareness #EmergingTrends #BusinessIntelligence “The best beers are the ones we drink with friends.” — Beerconomy Cheers🍻! ✦✦✦ Stephen Carter King Chief of Growth and Marketing and Strategy, Beer Market Analyst and CEO of Beerconomy sharing beer market trends, insights, data and forecasts • Thought Catalyst • Advisor • Sherpa • Speaker • Publisher of ‘The Beerconomist’

Had a conversation yesterday that has been stuck in my head since. It was in regard to the flat/down sales we are definitely seeing in craft, especially with a lot of smaller breweries haven't yet seen this trend in their business. We agreed that consumers seem to be trending back to core brands somewhat as we were looking around the bar in their taproom, and while they had roughly 18-20 beers on tap, about 75% of their patrons seated at the bar were drinking 2 of their core brands. So much so that one of them kicked while we were sitting there. The question that then came up was, "Do you think these breweries that are constantly doing rotating brands with really zero core brands, can keep that up in the future?" This brought up a good point. I myself was really into trying new things, and while I still am, I do find myself seeking out those trusted breweries and brands quite frequently. Even a Chicago powerhouse such as Hop Butcher seems to be more frequently releasing their brands that sell well, as well as playing with sub-brands, like their "pizza series" now having multiple brands "Tavern Cut, Tavern King, Triangles vs. Squares, Deeper Dish", The "Meet The..." series, the "Beef Dipped" series, and so on. What are your thoughts on this? Will these breweries that have avoided cores need to establish something to help keep their sales at or above current state? Is it too late for some of them?

Do you know one thing about Brewery Owners that makes me giggle? Brewery owners, have you ever noticed how when you're picking out a new brew kettle or tank, you're all in on the specs knowing exactly where its going to go and what it will do for you, but freeze up when it's time to talk rebrand and what you want to achieve with that? It's funny how that works! Here’s a quick tip to help you out: Think of a rebrand like choosing a new piece of brewing equipment. What do you want it to achieve by purchasing it? More sales? Boost your local rep? Pack out the taproom? Spread your bottles far and wide? Maybe even scoop up some awards? Setting clear goals for your rebrand is just like knowing what you need from your next big equipment purchase. It makes sure you invest in changes that really pay off, whether it’s beefing up your bottom line, expanding your distribution, or just making more people fall in love with your brews. Here are a few example goals I've been talking to breweries about recently... - Local Fame: Becoming the toast of the town - Crowded Taproom: Looking to draw more people to their membership - Bottles on Shelves: Getting a wider distribution network - Award Winner: Chasing some shiny medals. - Press Buzz: Featuring in some of the most reputable industry magazines. Choose what matters most, and then find the right partner to help you nail it. And hey, if you’re wondering where to start, I’m just a message away. #BreweryBranding #CraftBeerMarketing #RebrandingGoals #BreweryLife

In the 1950s, the United States Brewers Foundation published a twelve-step brochure titled "Brewing in Brief." Nowadays, Ivy League schools like Cornell (shout out to Andy Bernard) have certificate programs in craft brewing. It is a testament to the craft's increasing popularity, sophistication, and intricacy. Yet, beyond the focus of creating the perfect brew lies a labyrinth of logistical challenges of getting beer to the customer. You can alleviate these challenges and significantly simplify your craft beer #supplychain management operations by collaborating with Third-Party #Logistics (3PL) providers such as Zengistics. This article aims to shed light on the crucial role that #3PLs play in the #craftbeer industry's continued success. From navigating complex regulations to ensuring the quality of the beer during transport, we'll delve into the myriad ways 3PLs are transforming the craft beer landscape. https://lnkd.in/gxMDUgKC

🍻 150 years ago this fall, a German immigrant named Adolph Coors brewed his first beer in Golden with Rocky Mountain spring water. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: The birth of Coors in 1873 launched a global beer empire, transformed the brewing industry and created a Colorado mystique that defines the state to this day. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆: The brewery in the foothills west of Denver — the second-biggest in the world and largest in the U.S., producing 10 million barrels a year — is facing an existential crisis as beer sales decline and a new generation of drinkers moves toward alternative and healthier beverages. • In 2022, Molson Coors posted its steepest decline in U.S. volume in the modern era, down 5% or 2.2 million barrels, according to economists at the Boulder-based Brewers Association. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 from Axios Denver:

YOUR Orange County Chamber of Commerce, NY was honored to attend the launch party of our two #OCNYChamberMember!! Dana Distributors Expands Portfolio with Exclusive Newburgh Brewing Company Distribution Rights in Five New York Counties Goshen, NY – February 7th 2024, Dana Distributors Inc., a leading beverage distributor known for its extensive selection of quality beers and beverages, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Orange County’s best-selling brewery Newburgh Brewing Company. This new alliance grants Dana Distributors Inc. exclusive distribution rights for Newburgh Brewing Company’s esteemed selection of craft beers across Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, and Sullivan counties in New York. This exciting development marks a significant expansion for Dana Distributors Inc., solidifying its position as a key player in the New York beverage distribution landscape. The partnership aligns with Dana Distributors Inc.’s commitment to providing its customers with a diverse and premium range of beverage options. Newburgh Brewing Company, based in Newburgh, NY, has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative and flavorful craft beers. Known for their commitment to quality and community, Newburgh Brewing Company’s offerings are a perfect addition to Dana Distributors Inc.’s portfolio. Tom Kennedy, General Sales Manager of Dana Distributors Inc., expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Newburgh Brewing Company and bring their outstanding craft beers to new markets. This collaboration not only enriches our product lineup but also supports our mission to offer the finest beverages to our customers. We look forward to a successful and lasting relationship with Newburgh Brewing Company.” The distribution agreement covers a wide range of Newburgh Brewing Company’s beers, including their flagship Cream Ale, the robust Brown Ale, and the innovative Boss I.P.A.’s. These products are now available in bars, restaurants, and retail outlets across the five counties, providing an exciting new option for craft beer enthusiasts. Paul Halayko, President and Co-Founder of Newburgh Brewing Company, commented, “Dana Distributors Inc.’s reputation for excellence and their deep understanding of the local market as a long-standing family business of Orange County make them the ideal partner for us as we look to expand our reach. We are excited to see our beers make their way into the hands of more New Yorkers through this partnership.” The partnership between Dana Distributors Inc. and Newburgh Brewing Company is set to begin immediately, with distribution activities ramping up to ensure availability across the designated territories. For additional information about Dana Distributors Inc. and the Newburgh Brewing Company product range, please visit www.danadistributors.com and www.newburghbrewing.com . For media inquiries, please contact: Patrick English patrick@danadistributors.com

Guinness sells the experience, not just beer. One of the main design elements of their new Chicago location is … … a 7,700-pound metal harp that hangs over the main bar. And there’s more, much more. Yup. The experience. You wanna’ know why ‘On Premises’ beer and craft beer sales have cratered nearly 5% this year already?! Your ‘premises’ is very boring, at the very least it’s not inspiring, or not an exciting place to hang out. And no, a brand new version of “Trivial Pursuit” night won’t help, nor new music bands or comedy acts. At this Guinness pub, designer Karen Herold calls it “the cathedral moment” that visitors will enjoy after making it past the brewing tanks, through the retail portion, and after the baked goods. “An important part of what Guinness has become over the last 260-plus years, is the fact that we’re willing to ask people to maybe take a bit of a different journey than they’re expecting,” says Ryan Wagner, Guinness’ head of marketing and national ambassador. The excitement is truly palpable as Guinness wants visitors to know that there’s more to Guinness than just a beer. Sell the experience, sell great products, they’ll come running back for more. “Guinness, it’s what Chicago drinks.” — Stephen Carter King #Beer #Brewer #Brewery #Taproom #Brewpub #Brand #BrandAwareness #ConsumerBehavior ✦ ✦ ✦ Stephen Carter King Chief Beerconomist • Team Leader • CEO at Beerconomy + The Beerconomist subsidiaries of Kings Crossing Steve@KingsCrossing.com Beerconomy clarifies pathways for craft beer and beer breweries and those supporting them, by providing data analysis, predictive analytics, business-driven and forward-looking insights