Tennessee Craft Brewers Guild Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Tennessee Craft Brewers Guild Inc. is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit membership organization representing independent craft breweries across Tennessee. Established in 2012, the Guild serves as the collective voice for the state's craft brewing industry, advocating for its interests and promoting its growth.

Mission and Vision

The Guild's mission is to advance the interests of Tennessee's craft brewers by modernizing craft beer legislation, creating awareness of the industry's positive economic impact, and positioning Tennessee as a premier craft beer state. Its vision includes being the recognized voice for Tennessee craft brewers in national and state policy matters.

Industry Significance

The Guild plays a pivotal role in supporting over 60 member breweries, contributing to Tennessee's vibrant craft beer scene. Through initiatives like the "Farm to Tap" program, the Guild promotes the use of locally sourced ingredients, strengthening the connection between Tennessee's agriculture and its craft brewing industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Legislative Advocacy: Modernize craft beer legislation in Tennessee to foster industry growth.

Economic Impact Awareness: Highlight the positive economic contributions of Tennessee craft brewers.

State Positioning: Establish Tennessee as a leading state for craft beer production.

Areas of Specialization

Legislative Support: Collaborating with legislators to influence favorable policies.

Community Engagement: Organizing events like the "Farm to Tap" festival to showcase local breweries.

Marketing Initiatives: Launching programs such as the "Tennessee Ale Trail" to promote member breweries.

Key Technologies Utilized

Digital Platforms: Utilizing mobile websites for programs like the "Tennessee Ale Trail" to engage consumers.

Primary Markets Targeted

Local Communities: Engaging residents to support local breweries.

Tourists: Attracting visitors to explore Tennessee's craft beer offerings.

Legislators: Influencing policy decisions to benefit the craft brewing industry.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a nonprofit organization, the Guild's funding primarily comes from membership dues, event revenues, and grants. Specific financial details are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Funding Rounds

The Guild has secured funding through state grants, such as the $350,000 appropriation from the Tennessee General Assembly to support the "Farm to Tap" initiative.

Notable Investors

While specific investors are not publicly listed, the Guild collaborates with various stakeholders, including the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, to advance its initiatives.

Utilization of Capital

Event Organization: Funding festivals like "Farm to Tap" to promote local breweries.

Legislative Advocacy: Supporting efforts to modernize craft beer legislation.

Marketing Campaigns: Developing programs like the "Tennessee Ale Trail" to engage consumers.

Pipeline Development

Key Initiatives

Farm to Tap Festival: A statewide event showcasing breweries that use locally sourced ingredients. The next festival is scheduled for March 12, 2022, at Tailgate Brewery in Nashville.

Tennessee Ale Trail: A mobile pass program encouraging consumers to visit participating breweries across the state. Over 60 Guild members are participating in this free digital passport program.

Target Conditions

These initiatives aim to strengthen the local economy, promote sustainable practices, and enhance the visibility of Tennessee's craft beer industry.

Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Farm to Tap Festival: Annual events with the next festival planned for March 12, 2022.

Tennessee Ale Trail: Ongoing program with continuous participation from member breweries.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

The Guild leverages digital platforms to engage consumers and promote member breweries, such as the mobile website for the "Tennessee Ale Trail."

Significant Scientific Methods

While specific scientific methodologies are not detailed, the Guild emphasizes the use of locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable and innovative brewing practices.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Sharon Cheek: Executive Director of the Tennessee Craft Brewers Guild. Under her leadership, the Guild has launched initiatives like the "Farm to Tap" festival and the "Tennessee Ale Trail."

Board of Directors (2025)

Eric Latham: Johnson City Brewing Company

Jay Boyd: Odd Story Brewing Company

Chad Mueller: Tennfold Brewing

Kent Taylor: Blackstone Brewing Company

Shelby Haggard: Common John Brewing Company

Anthony Davis: East Nashville Beer Works

Blair Perry: Soul and Spirits Brewery

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Tennessee's craft beer industry is experiencing significant growth, with the state ranking 21st nationally in the number of breweries, totaling 141. The industry rebounded strongly in 2021, with major breweries reporting substantial increases in sales.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Bearded Iris Brewing: Nashville-based brewery with a 42% growth in 2021, reaching 15,400 barrels.

Wiseacre Brewing Co.: Memphis-based brewery with a 32% growth in 2021.

Yazoo Brewing Company: Nashville's pioneering craft brewery, producing 16,000 barrels in 2021 with a 28% growth.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The Guild collaborates with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture on the "Farm to Tap" initiative, promoting the use of locally sourced ingredients in brewing.

Operational Insights

The Guild's focus on legislative advocacy, community engagement, and marketing initiatives positions it as a central figure in Tennessee's craft beer industry, fostering a collaborative environment among breweries.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Legislative Advocacy: Continue efforts to modernize craft beer legislation in Tennessee.

Economic Impact Promotion: Enhance awareness of the craft beer industry's contributions to the state's economy.

State Positioning: Strengthen Tennessee's reputation as a premier craft beer destination.

Future Business Directions

The Guild aims to expand its initiatives, increase membership, and further integrate Tennessee's agricultural products into the brewing process, supporting local farmers and enhancing the uniqueness of Tennessee craft beers.