America's Beer Distributors

July 20th Nomination Deadline for Fourth Annual Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award Draws Near

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Brewers Association (BA) will accept nominations for the Fourth Annual Craft Beer Distributor of the Year award through July 20, 2010.  The award recognizes an American beer distributor who actively markets, sells and promotes craft beer.  The award will be presented September 18, 2010, at the Great American Beer Festival, hosted by the BA, in Denver, Colorado.

America’s beer distributors and craft brewers can nominate any distributor they believe is deserving of the award.  To nominate a deserving distributor and to read the entry rules, visit www.nbwa.org.

“The entrepreneurial spirit of craft brewers continues to add energy and excitement to the American beer industry,” said NBWA President Craig Purser.  “Their continued growth, despite a tough economic climate, demonstrates American consumers’ appreciation for craft beer.  It is this excitement that fuels the more than 1,500 breweries in the U.S.”

In 2009, small and independent American brewers saw volume increase 7.2 percent over 2008, representing a growth of 613,992 barrels or about 8.5 million cases, according to new data released by the BA.

“American consumers are embracing new beer brands and innovative beer styles that distributors help introduce to local stores, bars and restaurants,” continued Purser.  “Beer distributors take great pride in being a part of the American beer distribution system which offers nearly 13,000 labels of beer to consumers from coast to coast.”

Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian applauded beer distributors for providing a valuable service by giving craft beers a presence in the marketplace.  “Without America’s beer distributors, we wouldn’t be seeing the enthusiasm for the wide array of flavor and diversity of American beer.  This award recognizes the extra efforts distributors are making on behalf of craft beer.”

In addition to the Craft Beer Distributor of the Year award, a Craft Beer Achievement award and Craft Beer Distributor Recognition award will also be presented to finalists.

###

 The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) represents the interests of America’s 2,850 licensed, independent beer distributor operations in every state, congressional district and media market across the country. Beer distributors are committed to ensuring alcohol is provided safely and responsibly to consumers of legal drinking age through the three-tier, state-based system of alcohol regulation and distribution.  To learn more about America’s beer distributors, visit www.AmericasBeerDistributors.com.