This post is the fifth in a series of posts called, “Get to Know a Brewers Association Committee.” Keep an eye out for more committee highlights like this in the future.

“The Brewpubs Committee was originally formed to ensure smaller, on-premise brewery members had a mechanism for representation in the organization, and has become a direct voice for our membership class. The Board of Directors recognizes that Brewpubs are a unique business model, holding the line between two businesses in one—a restaurant and a brewery.”

Cyrena Nouzille, Ladyface Ale Companie

The Brewpubs Committee is a diverse group of brewers who share a passion for elevating the craft beer culture of all Brewers Association (BA) members. To help promote the BA’s vision, the Brewpubs Committee:

• Develops and disseminates solutions that drive the greatest business value for membership
• Shares best practices, tools, and resources applicable to brewpubs of all sizes
• Fosters a collaborative environment among brewpub owners, operators, brewers, and guests

“The Brewpubs Committee was originally formed to ensure smaller, on-premise brewery members had a mechanism for representation in the organization, and has become a direct voice for our membership class,” says Brewpubs Committee Chair, Cyrena Nouzille of Ladyface Ale Companie. “The Board of Directors recognizes that Brewpubs are a unique business model, holding the line between two businesses in one—a restaurant and a brewery. I have served on the BA Board of Directors for nearly six years now, and if there’s one thing I have gleaned it is how much informed direction and decision-making comes out of committee work. The Brewpubs Committee is the vehicle for providing input on trends in the marketplace and the business issues we face. We urge members to get involved, share your expertise, ask questions, and reap the benefits of collective knowledge.”

Staff training is an important business aspect for many brewpub owners and managers. To address this key need, the Brewpubs Committee released Beer Server Training for Brewpubs in 2015. In 2018, the Brewpubs Committee decided to retool that resource into a two-part series. The first part will be released in early 2020, including expanded elements of a top-notch training program. A special section will highlight need-to-know information for beertenders and servers as well. Part two, focusing on how and why to train, is coming soon.

Along with thinking critically about the nuances of service training, the committee also works to ensure that brewpubs have their own networking and collaboration opportunities. Every year, the committee hosts an open house at a local brewpub during the Craft Brewers Conference. The open house is a chance for 200+ brewpub-minded folks to mingle and network with their peers while enjoying a beer. The 2020 San Antonio open house will be held at Blue Star Brewing Company on Tuesday, April 21.

“I have tackled many obstacles in my career by having the luxury of reaching out to fellow brewery peers for advice and direction. Serving on the Brewpubs Committee has allowed me to give back to the community that has given so much to me.”

Jess Griego, Bosque Brewing Co.

We understand that our brewpub peers need the ability to collaborate more than once a year. In 2019, the committee launched the “Ask the Brewpubs Committee” Program. Members have two ways to participate: post questions or comments on the Brewpub forum board, or send an email to the committee (brewpubs@brewersassociation.org). The committee will use its extensive collective knowledge to formulate new best practices or moderate conversations between you and your brewpub peers.

“Every brewpub is different, but we all encounter similar issues. With the Brewpubs Committee, I hope we foster camaraderie, thought-provoking discussion, and opportunities to learn so that every brewery and brewpub can be the best they can be.”

Kyle Kensrue, Randolph Beer

The committee is grateful for this opportunity to assist the vibrant brewpub community. Please let us know how we can better serve you!

Interested in Joining a BA Committee?

Brewers Association committees help shape and strategize the priorities for your association. Through committees, new ideas are formed, and the effort of the many talented brewery and guild individuals can be carried directly to the Board of Directors through its co-chairs. Additionally, committee work is a pre-requisite for service on the BA Board, as it acquaints members more deeply with BA values and projects.

While committees are capped to ensure a useful working group size, there are often opportunities for committees to welcome new members. Do you or someone at your brewery have the desire and skills necessary to serve on one of the Brewers Association’s committees? Contact Marc Preo with any questions or to show interest in committee participation.