Brewer’s Blog

Craft Brewing and R&D Tax Credit is Tasty Combination

November 14th, 2018 • by William Kuhlman

Craft brewers that have not yet done so should consider whether investment in product development, formulations, recipes, techniques, and manufacturing processes may qualify for a federal tax subsidy known as the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit. Many craft brewers may not realize that every day brewing activities may qualify under the updated or “relaxed” […]

5 Brewery Marketing Strategies You Should Use

November 1st, 2018 • by Chris Coughlan

The craft beer industry is one of the most rapidly growing segments not only New York, but the entire country. While this growth is a big win for the industry and our economy, the crowded marketplace is making it increasingly vital to differentiate yourself and find authentic ways to grow your brand loyalty. To get […]

Using the Think NY, Drink NY Mark Helps Everyone

October 15th, 2018 • by Meghan Connolly Haupt

Using the newly launched Think New York, Drink New York mark is important for unifying the New York craft beer industry. It also makes it easy for consumers to support local breweries which has become increasingly important in order to compete nationally. Just as the BAs Independent craft beer seal helps craft brewers compete against […]

Does Your Craft Brewery Have a Strong Logo?

October 9th, 2018 • by Vivian Choi

Strong logos are crucial to a successful business. Similar to craft beer, when logos are done right, they make a subtle, yet powerful impression. When done wrong, they leave a bad taste in in the mouth. The best logos are simple, giving the impression that all logos are a snap to create. They aren’t. Whether […]

Adding A Bus = Adding Value to Brewery Customers

October 3rd, 2018 • by Daniella Deloatch

New York City is home to numerous major craft beer festivals for connoisseurs to enjoy every year. As the leaves change and the year comes to a close, fall festivities are in full swing for craft beer and cider lovers. Local breweries can enhance their patrons’ experience by providing services beyond selling quality brews. Companies […]

BEER TRADEMARK DISPUTES: CRAFTING THE RIGHT APPROACH

October 1st, 2018 • by Bob English

When two breweries choose trademarks that may conflict, it is best for them to communicate early to avoid the costs of making changes in cans, labels, packaging, promotional materials, advertisements and loss of goodwill.  Further, they both will want to limit the expense of engaging lawyers to deal with the dispute. Changing the Mark If […]

SELECTING THE RIGHT BUSINESS ENTITY FOR YOUR BREWERY

September 21st, 2018 • by Bob English

What type of entity should you and your partner(s) use for your start-up brewery: a partnership, corporation or limited liability company (LLC)?  Here are some general considerations to tailor to your own circumstances. Entity.  A partnership is usually not an option as it would not limit your personal exposure to creditors and claims. An LLC […]

What Breweries Need To Know About Trademarks

September 16th, 2018 • by Bob English

Even though simply using your trademark automatically establishes your rights in the geographic area where you use it or may naturally expand, you can obtain valuable additional rights by applying to register the mark in the U.S. Patent and Trademark (USPTO). The financial and other benefits of registering your beer trademarks can be significantly greater […]

Does Your Brewery Comply with the New NYS Sexual Harassment Policy?

September 11th, 2018 • by Chip Grieco

As part of the 2019 State Budget that the New York State Legislature passed and Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed into law, there is significant new sexual harassment legislation that affects all employers in New York State. In light of this legislation and the increasing focus on the issue of workplace sexual harassment, it is imperative […]

Why Breweries Need Employee Handbooks.

September 6th, 2018 • by Randall Beach

As a craft brewer, your focus is on making the best beer possible. However, being a craft brewer means you are also a small business owner. That fact means that you also have to focus on managing a successful business. As your brewery grows, your business grows. This growth inevitably leads to hiring employees. Being […]