Nominations open for eighth annual Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award

The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Brewers Association (BA) are seeking nominations for the eighth annual Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award. The award recognizes an American beer distributor who goes above and beyond in its efforts to actively market, sell and promote craft beer. The award will be presented jointly Oct. 4, 2014, at the Great American Beer Festival hosted by the BA in Denver, Colo.

America’s beer distributors and craft brewers are invited to nominate any distributor they believe is deserving of the award. Nominations will be accepted until July 11, 2014. For the nomination form, entry rules and regulations, please visit www.nbwa.org/craft-beer-distributor-of-the-year.

“The craft beer category continues to experience tremendous growth thanks in large part to the effectiveness of the independent distribution system and the strong relationship between craft brewers and beer distributors,” said NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser. “America’s independent beer distributors take great pride in contributing to this American success story by serving as the vehicle to market for craft beer brands and working with craft brewers to provide choice and variety to consumers.”

Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian applauded beer distributors for providing a valuable service by giving craft beers a presence in the marketplace. “This award recognizes the creativity, innovation and specialized services independent beer distributors are providing on behalf of independent craft brewers,” Papazian said.

In addition to the Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award, a Craft Beer Achievement Award (first runner-up) and Craft Beer Distributor Recognition Award (second runner-up) also will be presented.