Business Management

Running a successful brewery or distillery takes planning, persistence, and knowledge. One of the key factors in operating a thriving company is excellent business management.

On this page, find information on business management and marketing for breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Get advice on assessing the feasibility of growing apples for hard cider production and access tips on brewing with Mid-Atlantic fruit.

How to Start a Brewery or Cidery

Starting a business in the cider or beer industry requires a large investment in both time and equipment. Whether you plan on running a craft brewery, cidery, or distillery, writing a well-thought-out business plan should be your first step.

A solid brewery business plan includes business overview and description, target market analysis, sales and marketing strategy, business operations (including taxes and licenses), and financial planning. If you are set on running a cidery that grows apple cultivars on-site, estimating the cost of production and including it in the business plan is crucial.

Note: Breweries, cideries, and distilleries are regulated both at the state and federal level. Most businesses will need to secure a location and have the brewing equipment installed before being able to complete the licensing process.

Brewing Equipment

Breweries, as well as cideries and distilleries, rely heavily on specialized equipment. This includes brew kettles, filters, fermenters, and fermenting equipment, bottling and canning equipment, hydrometers, and sanitizers. Distilleries will further need pot and/or column stills, boilers, mash tuns, and pumps.

Sourcing Local Ingredients for Beer, Hard Cider, and Spirits

Sourcing local ingredients gives brewers more control over the production process and allows them to incorporate local tradition, culture, and flavor into their product.

In many states, such as Pennsylvania, there are a good number of farms growing a variety of beer and spirit ingredients, namely fruits (including hard cider apples), vegetables, grains, herbs, and spices.

Expand your local network by joining Penn State Extension’s free Craft Beverage Meeting and connecting with other brewers, distillers, and farmers. This networking session is centered around an open discussion about the challenges and opportunities in supplying local grain products.

Brewery and Cidery Sales and Marketing Resources

As the brewing market is becoming increasingly competitive, the need for creating a distinctive brand and offering a unique experience is self-evident.

Breweries and cideries can further increase their market and attract a broader range of customers by providing low- or no-alcohol options and partnering with other local businesses.

In this section, access educational resources and tips on business management and marketing for breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Additionally, those interested in the cider industry may benefit from Penn State Extension’s Ramp Up Your Online Cider Sales webinar. Topics discussed include permits, logistics, labor, and online ordering platform set-up.