2020 WA Craft Beer Industry Virtual Base Camp

Speakers: 

Welcome with Washington Brewers Guild Executive Director, Annie McGrath

Keynote Presentation by Bart Watson, Chief Economist at Brewers Association

Abstract:

BA Chief Economist, Bart Watson, will cover the current state of the craft brewing industry, focusing on the dramatic changes in consumer behavior, selling channels (on, off, and at-the-brewery), and economic conditions.

Major Base Camp Sponsor: Stoel Rives LLP

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Speakers:    

Robyn Schumacher, Co-Owner at Stoup Brewing

Tim Hightower, Co-Owner at Hightower Cellars

Abstract: 

Forced to quickly react to on-premise closures and changes in consumer behaviors, these brewery and winery owners have found new ways of getting their product out in the market and engaging their customers. Gain insight on what changes have proved successful and will have staying power well beyond the pandemic.

Sponsored by: Great Western Malting

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Speaker: 

Kendall Jones, Washington Beer Blog

Abstract:

A brewery’s virtual toolkit is more important than ever now. It’s time to polish and sharpen those tools. The Washington Beer Blog’s Kendall Jones will show you how to make the most of your website, social media, email list and more to effectively reach your consumer to build your brand, and your trust, in a pandemic altered marketplace.

Sponsored by: Great Little Box Company

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Speakers:  

Evan Watts, Owner at Watts Brewing

Stephanie Artino, CPA, Owner at Artino Business Advisors

Abstract: 

What is data and how do we use it in a brewery? This talk provides a framework for rethinking how you manage brewing and operational data. We’ll cover principles for determining what to record, how to structure it, how to use it. We’ll also take a look at how you can optimize your POS and tap its full potential to help manage and grow, especially now. We’ll use examples from popular POS to look at pulling useful data, controls to help protect both employees and the business as well as manage taxes more easily. If you are on the fence about switching systems, this session will also help you better understand what to look for and differences between systems.

Sponsored by: Peterson Law

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Craft Brewery Direct to Consumer Sales – Navigating the Regulatory Requirements

Speaker: 

Stephanie Meier, Stoel Rives LLP

Workplace Safety in the Age of a Pandemic

Speaker: 

Karin Jones, Stoel Rives LLP

Base Camp Major Sponsor: Stoel Rives LLP

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Speaker:

Haley Keller, Co-Owner, Finance & Retail Ops at Peddler Brewing

Abstract:

There are so many ways to communicate, but which is the best for your brewery? An examination of how different breweries communicate with their staff, what’s working, and what’s not.

Sponsored by: Precision Fermentation

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Speaker: 

Sabrina Merriman, Director of Logistics at BSG CraftBrewing

Abstract:

A comprehensive look at the brewery supply chain and how it has been impacted by Covid-19 and related Covid-19 regulatory changes. BSG’s Sabrina Merriman will provide updates on various supply channels and discuss how brewers and suppliers can help each other ensure the smooth continuation of operations and keep costs as low as possible.

Sponsored by: Pro Chiller Systems

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Speakers:      

Oceania Eagan, Founder & Creative Director, Blindtiger Design
Dane Williams, Sales & Marketing, Iron Horse Brewery

Abstract:

In a year filled with “well, we never thought that would happen…” the need for marketing and sales decisions with intention could not be more critical. With the pandemic transforming consumer habits and the realization that the White Claw Effect is far from a passing trend, many are left wondering what to do. To cut through the noise, an organized marketing plan is more essential than ever. Through our panel presentation, we will discuss steps that WA brewers can take to adapt their brands to be more resilient, excite dedicated fans, restructure portfolios, and strengthen wholesale relationships in the process.

Sponsored by: Skagit Valley Malting

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Speakers:

Erik Fowler – Education Manager, White Labs
Grace Robbings – Co-founder, Reuben’s Brews

Abstract:

Guest experience influences perception of your brand and a quality customer interaction can help convert a passerby to a loyal ambassador. Education resonates through elements ranging from staff training, marketing collateral, and events and can be a differentiating factor in a crowded market. Join us as we discuss the impact of employee and customer education from real-world examples such as training and building education as a pillar stone of brand culture.

Sponsored by: Micro Matic

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Sponsored by: Fermentis

REGISTER HERE:  Please let us know if you’ll be joining us for this fun WBG Base Camp Happy Hour! Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation and a link to the zoom Happy Hour gathering.