Welcome to the latest deep dive into the craft brewing industry! Today, we're recapping an insightful conversation from the "Get Hoptimized" podcast featuring Dan Klasen of the Beverage Federation. If you're heading to the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) or simply keen on understanding the pulse of the brewing world, this is for you.
First things first, let's talk about the Beverage Federation. Dan describes it as a "smart buying group" or a "group purchasing organization" that connects beverage community members with supply partners. Think of it as the "Costco of supplies" for breweries, offering access to contracts, services, and products that help businesses run smoothly. In their third year, they're still the "new kid on the block" but rapidly making their mark.
Dan's journey with CBC is a relatable one. He recalls his first year as feeling like "drinking from the fire hose." The event is massive, often described as the "Super Bowl of conferences" for the craft brewing industry. Now, in his third year, Dan has a much better handle on what to expect and how to make the most of it.
Dan shares some intriguing trends he's observing in the industry:
Dan also discusses the importance of adapting marketing strategies to these new ventures. Simply adding a new product line isn't enough; breweries need to consider separate branding, social media approaches, and target audiences.
Whether it's your first or tenth CBC, planning is crucial. Dan advises attendees to:
For veterans, Dan encourages staying curious and seeking out new vendors and ideas. The industry is constantly evolving, and there's always something new to discover.
Cheers and We'll see you in Indy.