The fact that so many breweries allow proxies for special releases and beer clubs these days means that there's a lot of people sending "thank you beers" to their proxies. I'd like to hear from both sides on this one. Buyer - What (how much) do you give to your proxy? Does the amount you purchased or rarity (perceived value) of the beer dictate what you give or do you send a 'standard' thank you box regardless? Do you have any pet peeves regarding thank you beers? Proxy - Does the amount of beer you have to box up dictate what you're hoping/expecting to get? Do you ask for specific beers or breweries in return for your services or leave it up to the other person? Do you have any pet peeves regarding thank you beers? Cheers, Dave
i don't ask for, or expect beers in return when i proxy for people, but its nice if they can return the favor for me in the future with a pick up around them. on the other hand i almost always try to send thank you beers when people proxy for me. they are taking the time to help me out to get stuff at cost (as apposed to trading for) then its the least i could do. I usually send a medium usps box with a sixer of the local best (moonraker, fieldwork, cellarmaker, moksa)
I've been a proxy and trustee with several clubs for the last few years, and have met a variety of individuals. It really depends on the generosity of the buyer. As a proxy, it's kind of a hit or miss. Though generally, the more rare beer that I pickup - a greater return. Some promise thank you beers, then ghost after they get their goods. As for being a trustee, a good majority send great and awesome stuff. Others, not so much. Do I demand anything, no. On the other hand, it actually takes a decent amount of time on my part. Picking up beer, buy shippers, package, wait for labels, & drop off packages. Store extra beers until the next pickup to fill a shipper. Rinse & repeat. I know thank you beers including shipping costs, are costly. Though I think many who buy craft beer aren't trying to be cheap. $5-15 a can and $20-40 a bottle, isn't for everyone. Craft beer is a luxury. During this process, I've met some incredible partners. So it's a very positive experience for me. I also tend to buy less beer as a result. That is a good tradeoff. The only person who doesn't really like it, is my wife. Our time expended, and the beers/boxes/packaging around. Though she does get NG fruits and meads from time to time. So she tolerates it!
The only time I had a trustee help me out, I sent a 12 bottle shipper with at least $50 worth of Tree House /Trillium and paid for shipping both ways. They were to reuse the box and ziplock bags as I was trying to make it easy as possible. I also bought one too many El Cat bottles (round 8) so I donated one of those to him also. I've previously stated that I'm happy with Kolo shipping as it'll actually save me money and effort.
