Old Dogs and New Tricks

You're not the target market for those seltzers.

 

From what I've seen in some online sites about seltzers and the sales of Boston Brewing's Truly seltzer line of offerings it does seem to be the other way around.

http://www.barrons.com/articles/is-hard-seltzer-boston-beers-salvation-1501253072

 

Well, I guess I'm guilty of the hip-sterization of breweries, because I generally prefer breweries that have a decent selection of IPAs, Stouts, and Double/Imperial versions.

 

To each his own though. I like a little more variety, but honestly I love those styles.

 

As someone else mentioned, small local brewers are often involved in community events, which gives them a direct tie to their customer base. When large, distant companies (regardless of product) get involved in local events, it often just feels like an obvious marketing move. On the other hand, local companies... hey, we know these people and they're invested in our community!

Maybe the larger brewers need to revisit the local taproom model. I remember the Sam Adams brewpub on Sansom St. in Philly, where they had some flagship beers but also brewed unique styles. Hiring and producing locally would put them back in touch with new consumers entering the market.

Yikes! I sound like some corporate bore. Time to pour another Sly Fox Oktoberfest.

 

Victory and Southern Tier opened a taproom/brewery here in Pittsburgh not long ago. I just can't get into it. Not that I'm actively avoiding going to it, but it's not only out of my loop, but I can think of a dozen cooler places to go. Guess I'd just rather have a place that I felt was organically incorporated into a cool area and not just plunked down into a high traffic area for maximum exposure.

 

The beer world and industry is a pendulum. What is old is new again. Like music, art, and anything creative...if you are chasing the newest trend, you are already behind. Focus on what you are good at and do it to the best of your ability would be my advice.