There’s no doubt about it; the craft brewing business is booming in the United States. Today’s craft beer industry comprises a $20 billion market featuring more than 3,400 brewers around the country, and the fraternity is continuing to expand by more than one brewery with each passing day. According to a report by the Brewers Association, this recent growth has helped craft beers inch above 10 percent of total beer market share, and industry insiders suggest that continued expansion of smaller breweries could help the craft beer market double that percentage in the coming years.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery is capitalizing on this rising market demand through the production and commercialization of a full range of craft beer options. The company’s dedication to excellence has helped it achieve a host of industry recognition for its specialty brews – including claiming top prize at the 2014 ‘Start Up Brewery Challenge’ hosted by Craft Brew Alliance (NASDAQ: BREW) and four medals at the U.S. Open Beer Championships.
In recent months, HOPS has taken major steps toward expanding its distribution network, which should provide a platform for considerable financial growth in the future. In March, the company entered into a distribution agreement with Craft Brew Alliance that allowed HOPS to extend its reach to encompass the majority of its home state of North Carolina. Before the end of 2015, this partnership is also expected to help facilitate additional expansion throughout the Appalachian region, vastly increasing HOPS’s distribution potential.
“We are committed to bringing distinctive, authentic craft beers and brands that are rooted in community and local heritage to beer lovers across the United States,” Andy Thomas, chief executive officer of Craft Brew Alliance, stated in a news release. “North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing craft beer states, and the opportunity for Appalachian Mountain Brewery – which is loved just as much for its delicious brews as its leadership in sustainability and community involvement – is tremendous.”
During the first three months of 2015, the company demonstrated its tremendous market potential by posting an increase in quarter-over-quarter gross profit of nearly 12 percent. Look for HOPS to build on this financial growth moving forward as it continues to leverage the distribution capabilities afforded through its agreement with Craft Brew Alliance. For prospective shareholders, the company’s recent actions could foreshadow an opportunity for sustainable returns in the months to come.
For more information, visit www.appalachianmountainbrewery.com
