As Weyerbacher Brewing continues to look to the future they recently shared with us that they are finalizing a deal that will bring investment money to assist in facilitating their growth. Details are still being finalized and we will update as more information is available. However we did sit down with Weyerbacher’s COO Josh Lampe to understand the impact this will have.
So what does this mean for customers? As we learned, it will have a positive impact for all involved. The infusion of capital will allow the brewery to continue to operate at a high level while also allowing them to grow in many different areas.
“ We are all really excited about 2019, feeling very positive about it. A little bit of a tough road ahead, but we are continuing to make beer at the quality that is expected of Weyerbacher.”
– Josh Lampe, COO of Weyerbacher Brewing
Admittedly 2018 was a down year for the brewery. Producing 15,000 barrels which was down 3,000 from their high of 18,000. As a result of looking for an investment the company did have to shed expenses in the form of salary from two long time salespeople.
In speaking with Mr. Lampe, we were told that they’ve seen issues of same size breweries within the industry, but they’re working hard to avoid many of them. One of the changes this investment will have is for Weyerbacher to introduce an in house canning line. Allowing the brewery to host special releases and offer more flexibility than a mobile canner. You will continue to see their beer on shelves and in bars and tap rooms, that will not change as we were told.
Tightening finances is not something new to breweries the size of Weyerbacher. Many other larger craft beer makers from all over the country have felt the financial pull. Breweries such as Deschutes Brewery, New Belgium, Avery Brewing and many others have had to make tough financial decisions that impacted hundreds of beer professionals.
As Pennsylvania beer drinkers it should be exciting to see Weyerbacher receive this infusion of finances. This will allow the brewery to take their next steps into the future while continuing to supply the state with the beer they have come to know and enjoy.
