The NB2A Speaks at the 2024 California Craft Summit

March 15,2024

The summit opening session featured keynote speakers Rob Tod, Founder of Allagash Brewing, and Christopher Shepard, Senior Editor at Beer Marketer's Insights who shared data and insights into the economic climate of craft beer. In their talk they emphasized the importance of building community and recruiting new drinkers, particularly among women and minorities, to reverse current trends. Providing excellent experiences in pubs and taprooms is instrumental in attracting and retaining customers, echoing the model that sparked the craft beer boom. However, changing community demographics and increased competition necessitate a proactive approach to diversity and inclusivity. 

Rob Tod underscored the necessity of actively engaging in efforts to bring new drinkers into the fold, highlighting the role of pubs and taprooms as inclusive spaces that make people feel comfortable and welcome. Diversity not only drives sales but also fosters innovation and attracts a broader consumer base. Christopher Shepard emphasized the importance of brand building and trusting in the unknown, encouraging individuals to build into something bigger than themselves. 

The opening keynote provided the perfect introduction to the event as was the NB2A's closing Tap Talk keynote session at the end of the summit. The issues Rob Tod and Christopher Shepard highlighted are very much in line with that of the purpose of the NB2A, which exists as a response to the cultural divide and unique challenges faced by Black individuals within the craft beer industry. 



NB2A's closing Tap Talk keynote session was a panel discussion moderated by NB2A Executive Director, Kevin Asato. Serving on the panel were NB2A members including Marcus Baskerville, Co-Founder of Weathered Souls Brewing; Rob Archie, Co-Founder of Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse; Beny Ashburn and Teo Hunter, Co-Founders of Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. The discussion served as a platform for people to ask questions freely without judgment, fostering a supportive environment for learning and growth, and a way to amplify the voices and stories of these Black-owned breweries, to inspire positive change within the industry and pave the way for a more vibrant and inclusive craft beer community. 

The message summit participants walked away with was this: Black-owned breweries play a vital role in revitalizing neighborhoods and infusing them with positive energy and vitality. Moreover, they attract new consumers to the craft beer community, expanding its reach and diversity. Taking action to support the Black brewing community and the NB2A involves becoming a member or advocating for awareness of the association. Breweries can participate in the "Black is Beautiful" brewing initiative, which serves as a tangible way to show support for Black individuals in the brewing industry, with the NB2A offering assistance in promoting such efforts at retail outlets, marketing assets, and free can labels provided by Blue Label Packaging Co.  Additionally, individuals can be inspired to follow Black-owned brands, collaborate with them when mutually beneficial, and actively engage in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the industry.

In the heart of California's craft beer culture, where innovation meets tradition, the contributions of Black-owned breweries are not just celebrated; they're embraced as essential ingredients in the rich tapestry of flavors that define the Golden State's brewing scene. So, next time you raise a glass of craft beer, consider seeking out and supporting these breweries (by visiting our Black Brewery Directory), because in every sip lies a story of resilience, creativity, and community. Cheers to diversity, and cheers to great beer!