Success Stories in the Craft Beer Industry: TailGate Brewery’s Journey
TailGate Brewery is making waves in the ever-evolving craft beer industry. In a climate where merely crafting an excellent product and packaging it elegantly is no longer enough, TailGate Brewery stands out by excelling in multiple areas. Based in West Nashville, this Nashville brewery’s unique approach and diverse product line have set it on a path of remarkable success.
The Craft Beer Landscape: A Tough Market
The craft beer industry experienced a significant shift in recent years. As per the Brewers Association, 2023 saw a 1.0% decline in craft beer sales and a record 409 closures. However, TailGate Brewery’s story is different. While the market faces challenges, this brewery has managed to thrive through innovation and commitment.
Nashville Brewery: The Birth and Growth of TailGate
Founded in 2014 in Nashville, Tennessee, TailGate Brewery quickly established itself as a powerhouse. The brewery has expanded to six taprooms/pizza parlors across Tennessee. Their latest location in Murfreesboro continues the successful formula: offering thirty TailGate brews on tap and a welcoming environment.
People First: The Key to TailGate’s Success
According to founder and owner Wesley Keegan, the secret to their success lies in their people. TailGate Brewery offers 100% healthcare, competitive wages, and a 401K match to all employees, resulting in a dedicated team that shares Keegan’s vision. His consistent mantra, “evolve or die,” keeps innovation at the forefront of the company.
Innovative Practices at TailGate Brewery
From day one, Keegan has made decisions that defy conventional wisdom. TailGate Brewery is open seven days a week, children are welcome, and their taprooms feature communal tables. These choices foster a community atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
Keegan also made strategic operational changes:
– Opening an in-house kitchen to replace food trucks.
– Hiring a full-time artist for labels, murals, and taproom aesthetics.
– Creating an in-house general contracting service.
Diverse Product Line: TailGate’s Strength
TailGate Brewery’s diverse product offerings include ciders, seltzers, frozen drinks, non-alcoholic beers, and sweet teas. This variety meets customer demands and keeps profits within the company. Diversification has been crucial for TailGate Brewery, especially in a competitive market. Keegan emphasizes the importance of not putting all eggs in one basket.
Local Focus: TailGate Brewery’s Strategy
Much like other successful regional brewers, TailGate Brewery focuses on organic growth within Tennessee. Partnering with Lipman Brothers, Tennessee’s oldest and most established distributor, reflects this strategy. TailGate’s core package lineup includes their best-selling TailGate Orange wheat beer, three other full-time beers, and TailGate Cider. Seasonal rotations further enhance their shelf presence.
Tables: Key Features of TailGate Brewery
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Taprooms | Six taprooms across Tennessee |
| Product Line | Diverse selection including beers, ciders, seltzers, and more |
| Employee Benefits | 100% healthcare, competitive wages, and 401K match |
| Local Focus | Organic growth within Tennessee |
In conclusion, TailGate Brewery exemplifies resilience and innovation in the craft beer industry. By focusing on people, product diversity, and local growth, this Nashville brewery continues to expand and thrive. Their journey serves as a beacon for other breweries aiming for long-term success. By staying true to their values and continually evolving, TailGate Brewery is undoubtedly a name to watch in the craft beer world.
