Georgia Craft Brewers Call for Relaxation of Beer Selling Restrictions
The craft brewing industry in Georgia is advocating for changes in the state’s beer selling regulations. Craft breweries are currently limited by laws that restrict their ability to sell beer beyond their taprooms. In response, they have launched a petition to capture the attention of state lawmakers and push for a relaxation of these selling restrictions.
Doug Farrell, co-owner of Skint Chestnut Brewing Company in Powder Springs, highlights the challenges faced by small breweries due to these limitations. Under current Georgia law, breweries can only sell their beer on-site at their taprooms. If they want to sell their products elsewhere, they are required to work with a distributor, which cuts into their profits. Farrell expresses his desire to have his beer available in local stores and restaurants, ideally on shelves or taps for customers to enjoy.
Earlier this year, Georgia Senate Bill 163 was introduced as a potential solution to this issue. If passed, the bill would grant breweries like Skint Chestnut the ability to sell their beer directly to restaurants and grocery stores located within 100 miles. However, the bill did not gain substantial support during the previous legislative session. Undeterred, the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild has launched a new petition to gather support for the bill in the upcoming year.
Joseph Cortes, Executive Director of the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild, emphasizes the need for fairness and open access to the market. The guild hopes for more flexibility for breweries, allowing them to operate in a competitive environment. However, not everyone supports a change in the current state law. A local distribution company owner warns of potential issues arising from breweries selling their own beer directly, citing concerns expressed by retailers who would have to deal with each brewery individually.
Farrell and other craft brewers believe that the existing restrictions harm small businesses and inhibit their growth. They are optimistic that changes will occur on the state level to level the playing field and benefit the more than 150 craft breweries operating in Georgia.
Since the launch of the petition, the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild reports that over a thousand people have already signed it. This demonstrates the support behind relaxing the beer selling restrictions and highlights the widespread desire for change.
In conclusion, Georgia craft brewers are voicing their concerns and calling for the relaxation of beer selling regulations in the state. They seek a fair and open market that allows them to expand their reach beyond taprooms. The introduction of Senate Bill 163 earlier this year and the subsequent petition launched by the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild indicate the brewing industry’s determination to effect change. While differing opinions exist on the matter, the ultimate goal is to create an environment that supports small businesses and fosters a thriving craft brewing industry in Georgia.
