Episode Overview

In this episode, we dive into the upcoming Craft Brewers Conference (CBC), known as the "Super Bowl" of brewing events, with Dan Klasen from the Beverage Federation.

For more information about Dan and the Beverage Federation, head to www.beveragefederation.com/

-Music Credit-

Neon Drive by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck

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Cracking the Code of CBC: Insights from Dan KlaSEn of the Beverage Federation

Welcome to the latest deep dive into the craft brewing industry! Today, we're recapping an insightful conversation from the "Get Hoptimized" podcast featuring Dan Klasen of the Beverage Federation. If you're heading to the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) or simply keen on understanding the pulse of the brewing world, this is for you.

Who are the Beverage Federation?

First things first, let's talk about the Beverage Federation. Dan describes it as a "smart buying group" or a "group purchasing organization" that connects beverage community members with supply partners. Think of it as the "Costco of supplies" for breweries, offering access to contracts, services, and products that help businesses run smoothly. In their third year, they're still the "new kid on the block" but rapidly making their mark.

Dan's CBC Experience: From Fire Hose to Focused

Dan's journey with CBC is a relatable one. He recalls his first year as feeling like "drinking from the fire hose." The event is massive, often described as the "Super Bowl of conferences" for the craft brewing industry. Now, in his third year, Dan has a much better handle on what to expect and how to make the most of it.

What's Different This Year at CBC?

For the Beverage Federation, this year's CBC is about strategic engagement. They're moving away from a standard booth setup to focus on deeper conversations and partnerships. Dan emphasizes the importance of understanding what each vendor does and how they can add value. He encourages attendees to ask questions, learn about new services, and engage in meaningful dialogues.

One key challenge Dan highlights is breaking through the noise. With booths showcasing everything from hoses to chemicals, it can be tough for service-oriented businesses to stand out. The Beverage Federation aims to address this by emphasizing their role in connecting breweries with essential services and solutions beyond traditional supplies.

Key Trends and Takeaways from CBC

Dan shares some intriguing trends he's observing in the industry:

Contract Brewing: This is becoming a more open and accepted practice as breweries explore ways to optimize capacity and expand their reach.
Alternative Beverages: Breweries are diversifying their offerings, venturing into wine, spirits, ready-made cocktails, and even THC-infused beverages. This shift reflects changing consumer preferences and the need to attract new demographics.

Dan also discusses the importance of adapting marketing strategies to these new ventures. Simply adding a new product line isn't enough; breweries need to consider separate branding, social media approaches, and target audiences.

Advice for CBC Newcomers (and Veterans!)

Whether it's your first or tenth CBC, planning is crucial. Dan advises attendees to:

Make a list: Identify the people and companies you want to connect with.
Schedule meetings: Set specific times to meet with key contacts at their booths.
Ask questions: Engage in conversations and learn about new services and solutions.
Don't just focus on the big stuff: There's value in exploring smaller, often overlooked services that can streamline operations and save money.

For veterans, Dan encourages staying curious and seeking out new vendors and ideas. The industry is constantly evolving, and there's always something new to discover.

The Value of Connection

Ultimately, CBC is about connection. It's a chance to commiserate with fellow brewery owners, learn from suppliers, and discover new ways to improve your business. Dan emphasizes the importance of valuing your time and finding solutions that can save you time and money in the long run.

Connect with Dan Klasen

If you're heading to CBC, be sure to visit the Beverage Federation booth. You can also connect with Dan beforehand via email at dan@beveragefederation.com or through their website, www.beveragefederation.com. We hope this recap has provided valuable insights into the upcoming CBC and the broader trends shaping the craft brewing industry. See you at the conference!

CBC 2025 Preview: It's About More Than Cans and Equipment with Dan Klasen (Beverage Federation)