We’ve been Brewers Association members for about a decade now, so we’re fans of the organization. We’ve attended and enjoyed the Craft Brewers Conference many times (next one is in Vegas April 21-24). We’re always on the BA’s website, researching data for stories, checking on legislation and learning about best safety practices. The craft beer-focused trade org also provides a lot of great business resources. Just the other day, the Brewers Association unveiled a new online course for human resources in breweries. The new HR Manager Crash Course (beneficial for breweries that lack an HR department as well as those with established HR teams) offers a unique blend of foundational knowledge and practical skills for breweries of all sizes.
The BA is also big on advocacy. Federally and on the state level, the BA spearheads tons of work to ensure small brewers have equitable access to markets, fair tax rates and sensible regulations. For example: In 2023, the Brewers Association prioritized working closely with state guilds nationwide to modernize outdated laws and regulations, with efforts supporting shipping craft beer directly to consumers, beer franchise law reform and self-distribution authorization for small and independent craft brewers.
Overall, last year was a busy year for the BA, as its membership (indie brewers) struggled in an ultra competitive and expensive economic environment that saw lots of new breweries still opening and lots of established ones closing. It’s all detailed in the videos above and below. The BA just recently published its 2023 Annual Report summarizing its work in the past year to support the craft brewing community. From the website:
“2023 was a tough year for an industry facing slower growth and heightened competition. The Brewers Association doubled down on our resources and our advocacy to help brewers run smarter, more efficient, and more profitable businesses,” said Bob Pease, BA president and CEO. “I invite you to grab a beer and take a few minutes to learn about the work we’re doing for you — and know that we are by your side every step of the way.”
The BA goes on to detail a variety of initiatives and resources it’s providing craft brewers. On July 25 and 26, 100 brewery representatives, guild leaders and allied trade members visited Washington, D.C., for the Brewers Association’s 2023 Hill Climb. Those groups promoted the United States Postal Service (USPS) Shipping Equity Act, appropriations requests for the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, hops and barley research, the brewing industry supply chain and more.
In September 2023, the BA launched a revamped and expanded online training center to support the professional development goals of brewery staff. A new Beer Quality Management course was introduced in fall 2023, joining the popular Brewery Safety Training and Draught Line Training courses. Now there’s that new HR Manager Crash Course we mentioned above.
In 2023, Brewers Association added two new titles to its Brewers Publications division, expanding its comprehensive library to 68 books for beer professionals and members. Those are just a few examples. The BA has a lot going on for its members, so maybe consider membership right over here. Then, check out the BA’s annual self report right over here. Then, enjoy this other video from the BA recapping the 2023 craft brewing industry:
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