Every microbrewery started its life as an endeavor of passion. They began in a kitchen when a keen brewer brewed up their first batch of craft beers. Eventually, they perfected their craft and began to make more and more. Once they think they have a product that other people will enjoy, they start to think about maybe selling their IPAs and stouts to the general public. This is when the process turns from being a hobby into being a professional way of life. But how do you make this jump? Below, we take a look at five useful tips for scaling brewery business and getting your products into bars and shops.
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Foster Community
You’re not up against the world when it comes to craft beer. It’s all about healthy competition, and sometimes even less than that; sometimes you’ll work directly with people who are, on paper, your “competitors.” In the great game that is the microbrewery industry, everyone’s on the same team. When you ready to make the jump up, reach out to nearby brewers; they’ll help you in whatever way they can.
Bring People On Board
Remember, this is no longer a part-time hobby: you’re now in business, and you won’t be able to make it to the top all on your own. You’re going to want to bring other employees on board, ones who are savvy marketers, know how to run a business, and who also have a love for beer. When it comes to hiring, it’s best not to get bogged down with resumes and the like. Microbreweries aren’t corporate (yet); hire people who you think will work well with your vision for your craft beer rather than where they went to university and so on.
Get Professional
Now that you’re going professional, you’re going to have to…start acting professionally. That means treating your business like a legitimate company and taking care of all the small details of running a business with due attention and care. You’ll want beverage management software so that you’re able to boost your productivity and increase profit, and you’ll also need things like a website, distribution partners, and any health and safety certificates, among other things. Licences may be required depending on where you live, too.
Step Up Funding
There’s no getting around the fact that running a microbrewery is expensive. Now that you’re stepping up, you might want to think about taking out a business loan or looking for outside private investors. Despite the impressive trading that craft beer is doing, the banks are still unsure when it comes to investing in them, so you might have to look at some alternative funding sources to take your business to the next level.
Cement Your Brand
In the early days you could toy around with your brand, but now you’re getting serious you’ll want to have that locked in. Branding is just about everything when it comes to craft beer, so make sure yours is just as you want it. While you’ll be able to make subtle changes, the overlook look and feel of your company won’t change once it’s launched.