GABF, Pumpkin Ales, and September Newsletter Brewers Association Updates

From the Brewers Association:

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, we’re raising a glass to the emergence of our favorite seasonal brews—hello, pumpkin ales!  With the Great American Beer Festival just around the corner, we’re brewing up excitement! We’re here in your inbox to share some fresh updates from the Brewers Association. Enjoy!

• GABF Tickets on Sale: The Great American Beer Festival is in less than two weeks! New and exciting for 2024: Themed experience areas and a plethora of beyond-beer options. Apply for media credentials (if you haven’t already) to get in on all the action here.
• GABF Competition Awards Ceremony: Can’t make it to GABF this year? No need to foam over it—tune into the awards ceremony live on October 12 or catch the replay on The Brewing Network. 
• Intro to Ingredients: Want to know what makes your favorite brews so ale-mazing? Check out the new foundational course—perfect for non-production staff—that introduces the four key brewing ingredients: malt, hops, yeast, and water. 
• Fed’s Rate Cut: The Fed has tapped into a 0.50% rate cut, the first since March 2020! What does this mean for brewers? Our staff economist, Matt Gacioch, breaks it down.
• USPS Shipping Equity Act: The USPS Shipping Equity Act, which would allow the postal service to ship beverage alcohol, was reintroduced in the U.S. Senate. Learn what it would mean for brewers looking to expand distribution if passed.
• THC Beverages on Draught: Innovation in craft beer has led some breweries to experiment with THC-infused beverages. However, there are potential risks and challenges that brewers should consider (and be aware of) before offering these new beverages on draught. 
• Supply Chain Updates: The world of barley, hops, carbon dioxide, and aluminum continues to evolve. Drink up these raw ingredients updates as we head into fall. 
• Inventory Management: Calculating cost of goods sold (COGS) can be a pain point for breweries but it’s necessary to know the best practices and systems for effective inventory management in order to run a financially successful brewery. 
• Member News: Our members are doing some cool things. Here are some recent gems from September:
• Intermission Beer Company – Brewpub and Arcade Partners with Column 15 Coffee and Bravo Bakeshop for a Coffee Shop and Breakfast Experience
• Anderson Valley Brewing Company Changes Course, Releases Seasonal Favorite “Fall Hornin’ Pumpkin Ale” In the Fall