Creating craft beer evokes a sense of pride for most people. It takes skill and the right tools to make beer.  However, as the equipment needed for the process becomes cheaper and easier to operate, craft beer culture has blossomed into a multi-billion dollar industry.

If you want to be among thousands of independent breweries concocting your beverages, it won’t take long before your product gets a spot in the local supermarket’s wine and liquor section. Below is a guide to help you build your own craft beer business and start making unique beers for both enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike:

1. Plan it out

Since you want your craft beer business to operate legally, you will need to go through the legal steps like any other business should. This will involve writing a company profile and preparing a brand kit complete with custom labels and packaging that sets you apart from other independent brands.

2. Raise the capital you need

Even with basic brewing equipment in tow, starting a mini-brewery incurs heavy expenses. A filtration system and fermentation tank alone would cost you upwards of $100,000. You need to know where to find capital money. You can opt to ask for investments from family members or friends. Applying for a business loan is also a great way to raise capital. You can also reach out to private lenders offering loans with manageable interest rates. 

3. Find the best location

Once you have the money you need to start your craft beer business, you can then search for a location. Many independent brewers opt to start in their garage or an empty part of their house. This would come in handy if you can’t afford a larger facility like a warehouse. Make sure the size of the place fits the amount of bottles you want to produce. Your backyard may not be a good place for mass beer production, so look for commercial spaces big enough for the large equipment you will be using. 

4. Follow the rules on alcoholic beverages

If your beer business isn’t recognized by the Food and Drug Administration, then you could face a heap of legal problems if you insist on launching your products. If you want to sell your products, you will need to follow the agency’s rules and agree to an on-site inspection. In addition to that, you also need to use food testing systems to ensure that each bottle is safe to consume before they are shipped. In an article by TDI Packsys, x-ray inspection systems are particularly useful in detecting debris in ingredients such as hops and wheat. This ensures that your operation is focused on adhering to food safety and quality standards. 

Endnote

For many people, brewing craft beer is a hobby or pastime that’s just as satisfying as collecting comic books or gardening. The only difference is that there’s a growing market for craft beer you would want to swim in. If your goal is to offer a unique beverage made with love, then these tips should serve as your springboard to building an independent brewery with lots of potential.