47 Hops sponsors upcoming American Hop Convention

47 Hops, an international hops merchant, will serve as the diamond sponsor of the 59th annual American Hop Convention later this month in San Diego.

The sponsorship by 47 Hops, based in Yakima, Wash., is part of the company’s commitment to support the U.S. hop industry while furthering transparency between growers and brewers worldwide.

“When I founded 47 Hops, my mission was to open up the hop industry and help people understand how it works,” said Doug MacKinnon, CEO of 47 Hops. “We believe information flowing between hop growers, merchants and brewers is good for the industry.”

Nearly 200 growers and industry leaders are expected to attend the convention Jan. 20-23 at the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego. Conference topics include harvest forecasts, international regulatory standards and new hop-harvesting technologies. “Beer Geeks” host Michael Ferguson is the keynote speaker.

MacKinnon said the conference comes at an important time when the craft brewers are facing shortages of certain aroma hop varieties. It has been more important for growers, merchants and brewers to work together to find solutions to the challenges that lie ahead. “San Diego reflects the craft brewing industry, which is booming across the country,” said MacKinnon, the former director of Hop Growers of America. “The convention provides great insight into how hop farmers can keep up with the demand and continue to innovate.”

“We’re grateful to 47 Hops and other sponsors for their commitment to Hop Growers of America and its efforts in educating its membership,” said Ann E. George, the group’s executive director.

To find out the latest developments from the American Hops Convention later this month, follow @47Hops on Twitter and the #HopCon hashtag.