The number of new craft breweries that have opened is rising exponentially; locations have nearly doubled since 2015. Yet, despite this increase, the demand from customers is still high. So, how do you start if you want to turn your passion for beer into a brewery?
Keep reading to learn more about the steps involved in starting a brewery.
Come Up with a Business Plan
A business plan outlines the purpose for opening a brewery, your target customers, quarterly or annual goals, and costs of opening. When new business owners rush onto the scene without a clear idea of what to do or how it’s harder to find backing or establish a customer base. Your business strategy needs to answer critical questions and prove there is a demand for your future business.
Define Your Brewery’s Niche
While craft beer is high in demand, your brewery still needs to be unique and cater to a particular niche or customer base. Popular trends to consider are gluten-free beer, unique flavors, or make your space creative and worth visiting.
Decide What Type of Brewery You Want to Run
Specialized craft brewery types that have seen success on the market today include taprooms, nano breweries, microbreweries, brewpubs, contract brewing companies, and more. This will determine the size of the space you need, the amount of equipment, and the approach to marketing.
Look into Equipment and Gather Estimates
The type of equipment and how much h you need will affect the price, but there are types of brewery supplies needed for each type. These include
- Filtration system
- Heat exchanger
- Fermenter
- Hydrometer
- Brite tank
- Pumps and valves
- Dispensing tools and accessories
- Kegs
You’ll want to know the ins and outs of everything you own. Similarly, train your staff to have specialized knowledge in case of simple repairs and everyday use. Fortunately, there are many online resources you can use to learn more about beer gas and other specialized tools.
Look Into Permits, Licenses, and Other Legal Documentation
While the specifics of what you’ll need will vary from state to state, you can expect many steps in the process of launching your brewery.
You’ll need to establish your brewery as a legal entity with a name and trademark. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau needs to know about your operation as well. You will also need a liquor license issued by your state.
Many permits cannot be authorized until you have purchased and set up all of your equipment, meaning you’ll be paying for your brewery before you can even open it to the public. Additionally, a license to be a retailer is something you may want to consider if you plan to sell more than alcohol at your establishment.
Make Your First Menu
Your menu will list the drafts you have in over, often separated into categories by type and location, and include descriptions of each drink. If you plan to offer drinks on a seasonal basis, make sure that is clear. If you serve food, add descriptions to the listings that say what beer the food pairs well with.
Starting a Brewery Made Simple
From starting a brewery to your grand opening, you’ll have to go through a lot of steps. Begin with a business plan, define your brewery’s niche and type, get your equipment, legal documents, and make your first menu. It will be the opening day before you know it!
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