For those dreaming of owning their own brewery, we have compiled a step-by-step guide to brewing beer and tips on getting started. This includes finding investors or securing funding through grants, as well as ensuring you have a suitable location with ample parking and seating space for customers in the taproom as they enjoy your delicious IPAs or stouts!
Here is how it works
1. Choose a name
2. Sort out the legal requirements
3. Write a business plan
4. Find a location
5. Finalize recipe details
6. Obtain brewing equipment
7. Acquire a liquor license
8. Establish an online presence
9. Begin marketing
Now that we have covered all the aspects of starting from scratch with just an idea, let’s discuss the steps that will help you achieve this goal.
1. Pick A Name And Logo.
This is one of the most crucial steps in starting your brewery. The name you choose will be associated with your brewery forever, so it is essential to take the time to get it right. Make sure the name is easy to remember and pronounce, yet unique enough to stand out from other breweries in your area. It should also be easy to spell and trademark, as this may become an issue when expanding into new markets or dealing with potential legal conflicts.
2. Figure Out The Legal Stuff.
Before you can start purchasing equipment, brewing beer, and selling your product, there are a few tasks that need to be completed. The most important legal aspects include:
– Registering for a business license and tax ID number, which allows you to open a bank account and sell your beer
– Registering as an LLC or corporation with the state to establish a separate business bank account
– Obtaining an EIN (employer identification number) required for paying employees and filing taxes through the IRS
3. Write A Business Plan.
A business plan is a written document that outlines your business, its goals, and how you plan to achieve them. It helps you identify goals, make informed decisions, and plan for the future.
4. Find A Location.
The first step is finding a suitable location for your brewery. Consider the following:
– Your target market: Identify your potential customers and their location
– Accessibility: Ensure the location is easily accessible with minimal obstacles
– Proximity to other establishments: Consider nearby places where people go after work, and ensure your bar is easy to find
5. Finalize The Details Of Your Beer Recipes And Make Test Batches To Refine Them Before You Go Big With Your Setup And Equipment.
Before making significant investments in equipment and ingredients, it is crucial to ensure your beer recipes are ready. Test your recipes on a small scale to refine them and determine what works best. These test batches will help you produce high-quality beer on a larger scale.
Once this step is complete, pay attention to other details:
– Ensure you have the necessary equipment and space before committing to full-time brewing at home
6. Get Brewing Equipment, Supplies, Growlers, Glassware, And Kegs.
Prior to starting the brewing process, you will need several items:
– Brew kettles and fermentation vessels
– Hoses, pumps, and plumbing fittings
– Grain milling equipment if using whole grains
You can find these items at homebrew supply stores or online. If you plan to open a small brewery at home, local homebrew supply stores should suffice. For larger breweries or distribution to bars/restaurants/retailers, it is essential to order from industrial suppliers or manufacturers specializing in brewing equipment.
7. Obtain a Liquor License and Use Payroll Software for Money, Tax, and Management Tracking, So You Can Focus on What’s Important – The Beer!
Obtain a liquor license to sell alcohol legally. Use payroll software to track employee hours, wages, and benefits, ensuring fair and legal payment.
8. Establish an Online Presence and Start Marketing! Implement a Point-Of-Sale System to Manage Sales and Inventory Efficiently!
It’s time to establish an online presence and start marketing your brewery. Create a website that introduces your brewery, its mission, and why people should care. Utilize social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram to provide potential customers with easy access to information about your brewery. Additionally, hiring a good accountant is crucial for commercial beer sales. They will guide you on tax collection throughout the year and offer advice on tracking income generated by brewery operations, including tips earned from serving customers at bars or restaurants where alcohol consumption is permitted under state law.
