Brewers associations across the country are making waves in their communities by uniting brewers and pushing for changes in legislation that will further help the industry’s growth. These groups and guilds lead a charge that is making the craft beer industry a better place for consumers and brewers around the country at large, but more specifically in the states where notable breweries give their respective associations more weight. These are some of the many ways that Pennsylvania brewers, and others, are making change for the better.
Community
Like any great association, its work is best exemplified in its acting members. The members often share techniques, stories and ingredients, which makes for a rich culture for a state’s brewing industry. Pennsylvania breweries notably make the state a leader in overall craft beer production.
Thanks to names like Yuengling, Yards, Dock Street and Levante, our state’s brewing community authentically represents the region’s history of independence. That history reaches up to Massachusetts by way of Samuel Adams, which also houses a brewery in Breinigsville, PA. That association continues to grow with long-standing names as well as newcomers such as Night Shift and Tree House, who have entered the industry with a new spin on their region’s heritage.
Legislation
Brewers of Pennsylvania’s regular Day On The Hill engages lawmakers in Harrisburg with conversation and beer. The upcoming late summer/early fall 5th annual Day On The Hill includes various opportunities to engage with senators and representatives, a legislative briefing and time for beer tasting. By unifying our state’s brewing community, we show our lawmakers that this industry is an important, and vital, part of our economy.
Like our home state, the Massachusetts Brewers Guild pushes for changes in existing legislation. Currently, its site educates and asks readers to consider signing a petition for House Bill 245, which would give small craft breweries drastically more power over how their beer is distributed.
Public Engagement
Rallying craft beer lovers to take part in these legislative actions is a task, but using social media has proven effective in engaging lawmakers, breweries and the public in a positive way. The #SaveFred campaign raised over $25,000 to restore the Frederick Lauer statue, which commemorates an American brewing pioneer in Reading, PA. Similarly, the Massachusetts Brewers Guild shows a candid use of Twitter to share the news about its members and relevant legislation.
Looking Forward
Brewers of Pennsylvania strives to build our brewing community and speak out for pro-brewing legislation. In addition to engaging in public conversation via social media, we offer information such as resources for breweries and news on government affairs.
Keep up with the latest on what’s hot in the Pennsylvania brewing scene: like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
The Brewers of Pennsylvania is a nonprofit trade association that brings together leaders of Pennsylvania-based breweries in order to promote and protect the brewing industry in the state. Established in 2011, the Brewers of Pennsylvania serves the consuming public of Pennsylvania by encouraging brand diversity in the market. We believe in the nobility of brewing and hold dear the great traditions and history of Pennsylvania brewing.
Photo credits: Alexandra Whitney Photography
