Labatt Adds Fruity Twist to Non-Alcoholic Beer Segment

Labatt Blue Light Introduces Non-Alcoholic Strawberry Acai Beer That Capitalizes on Fruit Trend in Beer

BUFFALO, N.Y., Dec. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- No time for a hangover? No problem! Labatt Blue Light recently introduced its refreshingly fruity take on non-alcoholic beer, Labatt Blue Light Non-Alc Strawberry Acai. With 75 calories, this year-round non-alcoholic* beer stands out with bright notes of strawberry and popular acai, a tasty mix for the holiday season and beyond. As the selection of non-alcoholic products expands, Labatt brings one of the first fruit-forward non-alcoholic beers to the segment. "The new Labatt Blue Light Non-Alc Strawberry Acai offers a unique opportunity to shake up the non-alcoholic beer segment," said Inga Grote-Ebbs, Labatt USA brand director. "Beer fans can enjoy a light and refreshing fruity non-alcoholic beer, the perfect alternative for holiday parties and entertaining." According to an online survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Beer Institute, over 50% of drinkers ages 21-34 took breaks from drinking any alcohol versus 35% of all alcohol drinkers.1 "Millennials and 21+ Gen Z consumers are driving mainstream acceptance of non-alcoholic beer, as well as trends like Dry January," said Grote-Ebbs. "As conscious consumption continues, some people choose to abstain from alcohol all together while others swap out drinks over the course of a night. Whatever the reason, making refreshing, great tasting non-alcoholic beer keeps Labatt in the game." About Labatt Blue Light Non-Alc Strawberry Acai New Labatt Blue Light Non-Alc Strawberry Acai is a unique, refreshing, and flavorful alternative for those who want a flavored non-alcoholic beer! Labatt Blue Light Non-Alc Strawberry Acai is available all year in 6-packs of 12-ounce sleek cans. The product is currently available in NY and MI with a rollout to PA, OH and VT expected in 2023. *Contains less than 0.5% ABV 1 Online survey conducted within the US by The Harris Poll on behalf of Beer Institute from November 11-15, 2021 among 1,923 US adults aged 21 and older About Labatt USA Proudly headquartered in Buffalo, New York, Labatt USA has imported Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light from Canada since 1951. Today, Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light are America's top-selling Canadian beers. With a clean, refreshing taste, light color, slight hop aroma, good balance, fruity character and a slightly sweet taste, Labatt Blue has become the premier Canadian pilsener in the Great Lakes region. First brewed in Canada in 1847, Labatt continues to carry on the tradition and heritage of the great outdoors. Connect with Labatt on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Always enjoy responsibly.

Survey Shows Better Health and Goal Setting as Top Reasons for Going Dry in January

Go Brewing helps beer lovers Go Dry with one of the first non-alcoholic taprooms and signature craft brews available nationwide

CHICAGO, Dec. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 4 in 5 Americans who consume alcohol (79%) say they could be motivated to participate in Dry January in 2023, according to a new survey conducted online by The Harris Poll among over 1,200 Americans who consume alcohol, from Go Brewing, the Illinois-based company behind one of the country's first non-alcoholic and low-alcohol craft breweries. Top motivators for staying sober in January include a desire to be healthier (52%), losing weight (35%), and the ability to focus better on personal or work goals (33%). As Dry January grows in popularity each year, Go Brewing is making it easier to forego the alcohol with its Go Dry January Challenge, featuring a line-up of no- and low-alcohol craft beers, health and fitness events, special offers and more.  "Dry January is a perfect opportunity to reset, boost your wellness and challenge yourself to achieve your goals in the new year without the negative side effects of alcohol," says Joe Chura, president and founder of Go Brewing. "The survey results align with Go Brewing's mission to help people feel like their best selves. Using traditional craft brewing methods, we offer a line-up of beers that are better for you and deliver an authentic taste that makes it easier to moderate and have all the experiences with no regrets." Inside the Go Brewing Taproom Go Brewing opened in 2021 as the first non-alcoholic taproom in Illinois and has since grown into a nationwide online retailer and health and wellness community. The brewery, located in Naperville at 1665 Quincy Ave, Suite #155, is open to the public and offers lower-calorie, no- and low-alcohol craft beers on tap. For those outside the Chicagoland area, Go Brewing also has an online store with shipping available to 43 states. The online selection includes five of the brewer's most popular signature craft beers: Burn it Down IPA – A hoppy IPA with citrus and tropical notes (.48% abv | 56 cal) Prophets Hazy IPA – A smooth, hazy IPA with a fruity and creamy balance (.39% abv | 72 cal) Suspended in a Sunbeam Pilsner – A fresh, light pilsner with floral notes (.42% abv | 43 cal) Street Cred Nitro Bold – A smooth dark brew with espresso and cocoa (.35% abv | 60 cal) Head on Witbier – A clean and crisp witbier with orange and spice (.46% abv | 30 cal) "With more and more people declaring themselves 'sober curious,' non-alcoholic spaces like Go Brewing are quickly gaining traction," says Chura. "Much more than a tasting room, Go Brewing is a community hub where like-minded drinkers can gather in a social setting to enjoy great tasting beer without worrying about dealing with side effects the next day. Go Dry January Challenge at Go Brewing Beginning January 1, Go Brewing will be hosting a Go Dry January Challenge to encourage Americans to take a break from alcohol and feel their best in 2023. To join the challenge, anyone who texts "gobrewingdryjan" to +1 (331) 272-3577 will get daily texts with tips, exclusive access to virtual and in-person events, a discounted Go Brewing survival case featuring new brews, a downloadable "Go Dry Survival Kit," special offers and more. As part of the buzz-free challenge, Go Brewing will be presenting a wide range of health and wellness programming – both virtually and in-person – to help participants get through the month. For local residents, the Naperville taproom will be open six days a week with a full schedule of fitness events, cold plunges, breath training, live music and more. The taproom will also be available for remote workers looking for an alternative to working from home or a coffee shop. And, to start the year off right, the brewery will be offering a meal service as part of a partnership with Insainly Fit Meals. Out of towners can also join in the month-long festivities via virtual nutrition workshops, live streamed events, among others. "Maybe alcohol has always been 'one of those things' for you. Maybe you're sick of feeling foggy the morning after you go out. Maybe you're a parent and can't drink like you did in college. Whatever your motivation, we're excited to provide alternative options and helpful tools for people to continue enjoying the fun and flavor of beer while reaching their goals for the new year," concludes Chura.  For more information about Go Brewing and its Go Dry January Challenge, please visit https://gobrewing.com/pages/go-dry-january-challenge.  About the Survey The Dry January survey was conducted online between December 13-15, 2022, within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Go Brewing among 1,963 U.S. adults ages 21 and older, of which 1,290 say they consume alcohol. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact Claire Vartabedian at cvartabedian@lcwa.com. About Go Brewing Go Brewing is a non-alcoholic and low-alcohol craft beer brand that offers guilt-free drinking so that customers can achieve their dreams without the baggage of alcohol because Go Brewing knows that great stories come from realized goals. Every signature craft brew is handcrafted with traditional methods, with less calories, less alcohol and more productive tomorrows. For more information, visit https://gobrewing.com/.

Craft Beer Marketing Awards Announces Tattoo Category for Charity

Proceeds of new category entries to benefit The Michael James Jackson Foundation

MELVILLE, N.Y., Dec. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In the spirit of giving, the Craft Beer Marketing Awards (CBMAS) has announced that 100% of all proceeds of its new category – "Best Beer/Brewing-related Tattoo" – will be donated to The Michael James Jackson Foundation (MJF), an organization that funds scholarship awards to black, indigenous, and people of color within the brewing and distilling trades for a more just, equitable, and dynamic future.  "We are helping literally change the face of American brewing," said Garrett Oliver, Founder/Chair, MJF and Brewmaster, The Brooklyn Brewery. "We sent more people of color to Siebel Institute of Technology last year, than had attended the entire previous decade. The MJF is all about genuine and lasting change."  The decision to create the category is because of the popularity of tattoos in the beer industry. "Tattoos are empowering, they look awesome, and they just make life cooler." said Jim McCune, CBMAS Co-Founder. "Tattoos and craft beer are synonymous. The CBMAS brand is covered in ink – from our judges to our graphics, and Crushie trophy!" The fourth annual CBMAS Awards Competition is now accepting beer-related marketing and design entries from around the globe (including hard seltzer, cider, mead, and RTD cocktails). The deadline for entries is January 27, 2023. Breweries, agencies, artists, and marketing partners are all invited to enter their best work. Additions this year include new categories, a redesigned Crushie award trophy, and plans for an in-person awards ceremony during the week of the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference in Nashville, TN. The CBMAs is the first worldwide awards program that focuses on excellence in the artistic and creative marketing and packaging efforts of breweries, designers, and agencies. It has become the industry's expert voice and hosts a marketing podcast – Marketing on Tap – sponsored by EGC Group. Houston-based Hillebrand Bev Pros returns as the presenting sponsor for the fourth year in a row. New sponsors this year include: WA-based Yakima Chief Hops, NY-based DWS Printing, AL-based Steel City Taps, and VA-based BarTrack. "As presenting sponsor over the years, we've seen the amazing work delivered from breweries and marketing professionals across the globe. We're even more convinced now of the incredible impact that great marketing has on our industry," said Prabh Hans, VP Domestic Services, Hillebrand North America. For more information visit https://craftbeermarketingawards.com/

HEINEKEN USA's Second Behind the Label Report Dives into Inclusion and Belonging in the US Alcoholic Beverage Industry

Survey Findings Point to Transparency and Representation as Key Inclusion Factors

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Dec. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, HEINEKEN USA announced the release of "Fostering Belonging & Inclusion in the Alcoholic Beverage Industry," the second report within its ongoing Behind the Label program. Expanding on last year's gender diversity findings, the report draws on alcoholic beverage employees' perspectives on bias and inclusion in the industry, and how organizations can address both to improve belonging across the workforce. In looking at employees' experiences, the research showed that a majority (86%) say they have experienced some type of personal bias during their time in the industry. These employees recognize that efforts are being made to address these issues and 70% say they are confident in their company's ability to improve inclusion and diversity. While they point to a variety of things that their organizations are doing, those surveyed indicate that focusing on authenticity, representation, and transparency in their day-to-day interactions will have the most impact on their sense of belonging. Inspired by Representation and Authenticity Connection and representation play an important role in the factors employees feel most inspired by and which influence how they behave. More than four in five (82%) employees belonging to underrepresented groups feel they must mirror their colleagues to "fit into" the industry. Those pressures can be lessened, though, by the programs that organizations offer. For example, close to half (43%) of respondents say that a greater focus on advancement opportunities such as mentorship has encouraged them to stay in the industry. This was closely followed by 40% of employees saying that access to Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with diverse representation encouraged them to remain in the field. These advancement opportunities address the heart of a company's culture – they produce feelings of deeper belonging within employees as they encourage colleagues to work together through mutual trust and open communication. "Our industry is built on bringing people together – celebrating what makes each of us unique while enjoying the similarities that make us feel connected. This was part of the inspiration behind the second chapter of Behind the Label. We wanted to understand what people in the industry needed in order to feel like they belong and how we can best address those needs," said Maggie Timoney, CEO of HEINEKEN USA. "We want to foster an environment that encourages people to be their authentic selves, both in and out of the workplace, without fearing that they won't be accepted." Driving Greater Transparency While employees report being inspired by the connections they make with their managers and colleagues, they are also very focused on understanding the factors which influence their achievements in the workplace. Their responses show a strong desire for greater transparency from organizations. More than half (54%) believe there is a lack of pay equality in the workplace. What's more – leaders share these same worries. Senior executives (68%) were more likely to share concerns about a lack of pay equality than those at the mid-level or lower. More than a third (38%) of the employees surveyed ranked clear benchmarks for advancement as one of the most important factors for ensuring their success at work. This was followed closely by greater transparency on pay equity, which 37% of employees included in the top three changes they'd like to see the industry make. Employees want to better understand when they are succeeding, where they should focus their time to advance in their careers, and how such benchmarks are tied to their compensation. Through the multi-year Behind the Label program, HEINEKEN USA seeks to further explore the industry in order to strengthen the bonds between its people. By identifying the areas that will help to foster strong cultures of belonging in the industry, the organization aims to champion inclusion efforts for the good of its employees and others. To read the report and learn more about HEINEKEN USA'S Behind the Label initiative, visit HEINEKENUSA.com. Methodology On behalf of HEINEKEN USA (HUSA), in August 2022 Wakefield Research surveyed more than 500 US-based adults employed by alcoholic beverage manufacturers, with oversamples for 200 female, 100 Hispanic/Latino and 100 Black/African-American employees. The data has been weighted and the results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. In addition to the survey findings, the team synthesized research from several third-party resources, including Gallup, Gartner, Edelman, and EY. About HEINEKEN USA HEINEKEN USA Inc.is a subsidiary of HEINEKEN International N.V., the world's most international brewer. Key brands imported into the U.S. are Heineken® – the world's most international beer brand, Heineken® 0.0 – an alcohol-free beer innovation, the Dos Equis Franchise, and the Tecate Franchise. HEINEKEN USA also imports Amstel Light, Red Stripe, Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders, Bohemia, and more. For news and updates, follow us on Twitter @HeinekenUSACorp, or visit HEINEKENUSA.com.

Genesee Bets on Brewery's Most Well-Known Beer to Attract New Drinkers

Genesee Cream Ale Gets Modern, Yet Familiar Look (Same, Original Recipe)

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Dec. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The original Genesee Cream Ale has debuted a new look that harkens to the height of its popularity when the beer was a favorite across not only New York but throughout the U.S. "Genesee Cream Ale recipe remains the same and has become the style standard," said Jaime Polisoto, brand director for Genesee. "But now the packaging better connects to Genesee's heritage and with a fresh, clean look." First brewed in 1960, Genesee Cream Ale represents one of the only true styles of beer created in the U.S. When it came onto the scene in the 60s the new style piqued curiosity among beer drinkers, quickly rising in popularity and became Genesee's flagship beer. "At the time, Genesee Cream Ale was a completely new take on yellow beer," said Polisoto. "People loved the taste and the story behind the brewery. It became an overnight success." Since that time, Genesee Cream Ale has earned more than 14 major awards, including multiple gold medals from the World Beer Cup. And for a six-year period in the 70s and 80s, it was the best-selling domestically produced ale in the U.S. "While the beer business has changed significantly over the last six decades, appreciation for a well-brewed beer remains," said Polisoto. "We're re-launching the brand with new packaging to introduce Genesee Cream Ale to the next generation of beer drinkers." About Genesee Cream Ale Genesee is the original creator of the Cream Ale. The beer is fermented cold like a traditional lager but with an ale yeast, creating a crisp finish and a touch of sweetness. "Genesee drinkers can expect the same smooth flavor they love from Genesee Cream Ale," said Polisoto. "And now Cream Ale joins the rest of the classics with an old-school look that is authentic to the Genesee brand. The design highlights our New York roots and the rich heritage of the state's oldest brewery." Even though the look has changed over the years, Genesee still uses the original Genesee Cream Ale recipe in the Rochester, New York-based brewery today. Find Genesee beer near you using our Beer Finder. About the Genesee Brewery Established in 1878, the Genesee Brewery, New York state's oldest brewery, makes the classic Genesee Heritage line of beers, Genesee Specialty, Brewers Series, and Seagram's Escapes. Learn more at www.geneseebeer.com and on social media @GeneseeBrewery. Always drink responsibly. ROCHESTER, N.Y., Dec. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The original Genesee Cream Ale has debuted a new look that harkens to the height of its popularity when the beer was a favorite across not only New York but throughout the U.S. "Genesee Cream Ale recipe remains the same and has become the style standard," said Jaime Polisoto, brand director for Genesee. "But now the packaging better connects to Genesee's heritage and with a fresh, clean look." First brewed in 1960, Genesee Cream Ale represents one of the only true styles of beer created in the U.S. When it came onto the scene in the 60s the new style piqued curiosity among beer drinkers, quickly rising in popularity and became Genesee's flagship beer. "At the time, Genesee Cream Ale was a completely new take on yellow beer," said Polisoto. "People loved the taste and the story behind the brewery. It became an overnight success." Since that time, Genesee Cream Ale has earned more than 14 major awards, including multiple gold medals from the World Beer Cup. And for a six-year period in the 70s and 80s, it was the best-selling domestically produced ale in the U.S. "While the beer business has changed significantly over the last six decades, appreciation for a well-brewed beer remains," said Polisoto. "We're re-launching the brand with new packaging to introduce Genesee Cream Ale to the next generation of beer drinkers." About Genesee Cream Ale Genesee is the original creator of the Cream Ale. The beer is fermented cold like a traditional lager but with an ale yeast, creating a crisp finish and a touch of sweetness. "Genesee drinkers can expect the same smooth flavor they love from Genesee Cream Ale," said Polisoto. "And now Cream Ale joins the rest of the classics with an old-school look that is authentic to the Genesee brand. The design highlights our New York roots and the rich heritage of the state's oldest brewery." Even though the look has changed over the years, Genesee still uses the original Genesee Cream Ale recipe in the Rochester, New York-based brewery today. Find Genesee beer near you using our Beer Finder. About the Genesee Brewery Established in 1878, the Genesee Brewery, New York state's oldest brewery, makes the classic Genesee Heritage line of beers, Genesee Specialty, Brewers Series, and Seagram's Escapes. Learn more at www.geneseebeer.com and on social media @GeneseeBrewery. Always drink responsibly.

Award-winning ABK Bavarian Beer reaches 3,250 venue milestone in the UK

Milestone reached with ABK Beer now available in the iconic German Gymnasium bar in King's Cross, London

LONDON, Dec. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ROKiT Drinks, part of the ROKiT Group of Companies co-founded by Jonathan Kendrick and John Paul DeJoria, is delighted to announce that its ABK Beer is now available in 3,250 venues across the UK.  Founded in 1308 in Kaufbeuren, Bavaria, ABK Beer proudly continues to use the same locally grown Hallertau hops and grains from the same local farms, representing more than 700 years of Bavarian brewing heritage and tradition. Amongst a cabinet full of other trophies and medals won in recent years, ABK's Hell lager was awarded the title of 'World's Best Lager' at the prestigious International Beer Challenge in 2021, following blind tasting by 70 expert judges of hundreds of other beers. The German Gymnasium, built in 1865 as England's first purpose-built gymnasium funded solely by London's German community, now offers a stunning all-day Grand Café, a sophisticated first-floor Restaurant, two bars, and an outdoor terrace. Jonathan Kendrick commented "To achieve the milestone of 3,250 venues offering ABK Beer in the UK with the German Gymnasium is tremendously appropriate! We were stunned by the history and tradition of the ABK brewery and the quality of its beers when we discovered it in 2013, and to see its popularity grow in new markets outside Germany since then is immensely pleasing, as it's clear that those who appreciate the most outstanding beer love it as much as we do." For more information on the German Gymnasium and its specially created menu pairings with ABK Beer, please visit https://www.germangymnasium.com/event/bestselling-bites-abk-pints/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1960723/ABK_German_Gym.jpg