"Finding the Perfect Spot: A Focus on Geographical Placement"
In the world of craft beer, the journey from homebrewing to running a successful nanobrewery can be an exciting and rewarding one. One such individual helping brewers make this transition is Ryan Oxton, who is involved in the buyer's journey from start to finish and sometimes beyond. Oxton's favourite part is helping homebrewers turn their passion into a rewarding profession.
For those considering starting a nanobrewery, several essential tips have emerged from industry professionals. First and foremost, it's crucial to consider the local market demand and customer base. Ensuring there is interest and support for craft and small-batch beer in the area is essential for the brewery's success.
Evaluating zoning and regulatory compliance is another important consideration. Permitted land use, building codes, and liquor licensing requirements should be thoroughly researched to avoid any legal complications. A location with sufficient space and infrastructure to accommodate brewing equipment, storage, and a tasting room or retail area is also essential.
Assessing access to quality utilities, especially water supply, wastewater disposal, and electricity, is crucial as brewing processes require reliable and clean inputs. Choosing a site that encourages foot traffic and visibility is also important to attract walk-in customers and promote brand recognition.
Planning for future growth is another key factor. Selecting a location that allows potential expansion without the need for costly relocation is essential for a brewery's long-term success. Additionally, it's important to factor in proximity to suppliers and distribution channels to reduce logistics costs and streamline operations.
Sam Anker, of 1st Down Brewing in Winterset, Iowa, offers some practical tips for nanobrewery operations. He suggests sloped floors leading to floor drains for easier clean-up after Brew Day, and having multiple gas hoses for simultaneous carbonation of multiple batches. A durable hose and nozzle are also important for maintaining cleanliness in a brewing space.
Anker also emphasises the importance of considering the availability of outdoor seating, food trucks, pop-up events, and serving beer outside of the location. This can help attract customers and create a unique and memorable experience.
Jacob May, of Two Pillars Brewery in Calgary, recommends a waterproof brewing space for easy cleaning and avoiding potential issues with wet walls. Two Pillars Brewery also uses a double batch Nano system, which provides hot water on demand, saving time on cleaning and sanitizing.
Tim Eckels of Pipe the Side Brewing in Hampstead, Maryland, suggests that having hot water on demand is a nice feature, even if not essential. This can help streamline the brewing process and ensure consistent quality in the finished product.
Ultimately, understanding the city's limitations, rules, and restrictions regarding a brewery's location is crucial for a successful nanobrewery. By following these tips and doing thorough research, aspiring nanobrewers can set themselves up for success in this exciting and growing industry.
Embracing home-and-garden principles, it's crucial for nanobrewery owners to design their brewing spaces for practicality and efficiency, such as incorporating sloped floors leading to floor drains, dual gas hoses for simultaneous carbonation, and waterproof surfaces for easy clean-up (home-and-garden, brew day). To further enhance customer experience and brewery success, considering outdoor seating, food trucks, pop-up events, and serving beer outside of the location can be engaging and unique additions (lifestyle, home-and-garden).
