Strategies For Dealing with Market Uncertainty

The craft beer industry is facing difficult times. Having weathered the COVID pandemic, breweries are now operating in a market where alcohol beverage consumption in the U.S. is declining to historic lows. On top of that, the hemp beverage market, which has been providing a lifeline and stabilizing revenues, is under threat of extinction. How are breweries dealing with these difficult economic circumstances? Hear from a panel of owners as to how they are weathering the storm and transforming their businesses to survive and thrive.Jeffrey O’Brien is a partner at Husch Blackwell and leads the firm’s Alcohol Beverage practice. For nearly 25 years, he has worked with breweries, wineries, distilleries, and other beverage companies on everything from acquisitions and growth plans to licensing, distribution, and regulatory issues. Jeff works closely with producers across the country and regularly advises businesses on emerging issues affecting the beverage industry, including the rapidly changing hemp beverage market.Joining Jeff are Zack Ward, Founder and COO of OMNI Brewing Company; Daniel Paul Wellendorf, Co-Owner and Head of Marketing at Modist Brewing Co.; and Kevin Hilliard, Co-Founder of Insight Brewing. Drawing on their experiences leading some of Minnesota's most recognized craft breweries, the panelists will discuss how breweries are responding to shifting consumer trends, competitive pressures, and economic challenges while identifying new opportunities for resilience and growth.Join us in person for CBP Connects TampaDecember 7-9, 2026Come get inspired, leave with actionable strategies: https://cbpconnects.com/