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Tapster Redefines Bar Experience with Self-Pour Model, Launches Franchise Opportunity

Self-Pour Bar and Tasting Room Experience is Reshaping the Way Americans Socially Drink; Flourishes as Consumers Increasingly Prefer Self-Service Options

SEATTLE, May 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Craft beer fans rejoice; an emerging self-pour tap concept is making waves as they tap into franchising. With self-service trends continuing to flourish, two out of three consumers prefer self-service rather than interacting with staff, according to Forbes. A revolutionary leader in the bar space, Tapster, is experiencing this growing trend first-hand with its self-pour model and easy-going atmosphere that puts guests in the driver's seat. With interest across the U.S. rising, Tapster announced today the launch of its franchise opportunity to bring passionate beer enthusiasts and entrepreneurs a viable and simplified entrance to bar ownership.   Tapster's journey began with a passion for craft beer and a vision to reimagine how people experience it. "With Tapster cards in hand, our guests can be their own bartender and are free to sample at their own pace from over 40 beverages on tap – there's virtually no waiting, you're on your time at Tapster," said Tapster Founder and CEO Roman Maliszewski, who opened the first Tapster in 2017 in Chicago. "Our franchise opportunity represents more than a business venture; it's an invitation to join us in reshaping the future of how we socially drink, one pour at a time." Building on Success: Tapster to Open Fifth Tasting Room With increased growth in the craft beer and self-service industries, Tapster is set to open its fifth U.S. tasting room: Tapster's newest location opens this May in the West Main Tower III Building at 193 106th Ave. NE in Bellevue, Washington. The new self-pour bar is the brand's second location in the Seattle market, and among 10-plus tasting rooms, Tapster plans to open or have in development within the next 3-5 years. Tapster first entered the Seattle market in 2021 with its tasting room in South Lake Union and has since built a solid following with year-over-year growth and double-digit sales increases. Launches Franchise Model: Tapster to Tap into Neighborhoods Nationwide In addition to Seattle, the tasting room franchise primarily focuses on building its current operational markets—including Chicago, Cleveland, and Philadelphia—and beyond to a presence in most major U.S. cities within the next 10 years. "Our continued growth is a testament to the strength of the Tapster business model," Maliszewski added. "Over the past seven years, we've developed Tapster in very different markets across the U.S. – all seeing warm welcomes and becoming enveloped within the fabric of their local communities. Our goal is for our brand to be as recognizable as Starbucks, cultivating a welcoming environment for friends, families, and colleagues to hang out at their leisure." Tapster is actively seeking hands-on, owner-operator franchisees who are passionate about their community and will be dedicated to providing outstanding guest service and upholding the brand's standards. Previous industry experience is not required.  The Tapster franchise model is designed to streamline operations, ensuring ease and efficiency for franchisees. Unlike conventional bar and restaurant establishments burdened with complex staffing and food service requirements, Tapster's self-pour technology and proven operational systems minimize the need for extensive staffing, meanwhile allowing franchisees and their team members to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences. The total investment to open a Tapster franchise is $400,000 - $1,200,000, including a $40,000 franchise fee. To assist in developing the tasting room franchise opportunity and managing future growth, Maliszewski teamed with Community Franchise Group, which specializes in transforming emerging franchises into national brands. The group has a collective 100-plus years of experience scaling national franchise brands such as Orange Theory Fitness, Unity Rd., Maui Wowi, Cold Stone Creamery, Rocky Mountain Chocolate, Kahala Brands / MTY Food Group portfolio, Play It Again Sports, Plato's Closet, Once Upon A Child, Retro Fitness, Floyd's 99 Barbershop and Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores.   No Waitstaff, No Waiting: Tapster is Reshaping How Americans Socially Drink Tapster is a self-pour tasting room concept that offers a wide selection of beverages on tap, including craft cocktails, wine, cider, hard seltzer, kombucha, cold brew coffee, craft soda, and beer. With taps changing daily, guests pay by the ounce—and go at their own pace—to explore new flavors and try something different. The comfortable, neighborhood bar is a go-to weekly choice for locals to relax with friends, play board games, and enjoy a unique & interactive drinking experience. The brand also welcomes guests to Bring Your Own Food (BYOF) and hosts weekly events, creating opportunities for memorable get-togethers. All this, coupled with the welcoming and genuinely friendly environment, fosters a sense of community that keeps patrons coming back for more.   To learn more about the Tapster franchise opportunity, visit https://tapsterfranchise.com.   About Tapster:   Tapster is a pioneering force, revolutionizing the social drinking experience. With its innovative, self-pour technology, unwavering commitment to quality and focus on delivering a welcoming & genuine environment, Tapster offers guests a unique and immersive journey through the world of craft beer that allows them to sample a wide variety, at their own pace. Founded on the principles of environment, empowerment, and education, Tapster opened its first tasting room in 2017 and has four locations across the United States. With a proven business model focused on simplicity, profitability, and community engagement, Tapster offers owner-operator franchisees the opportunity to be part of a dynamic brand that is poised to reshape the way people experience and enjoy their favorite brews and cocktails. For more information, visit https://tapstertastingroom.com/ or https://tapsterfranchise.com.

Keystone Light Supports Service Members with Smooth Salute Program

Keystone Light has partnered with Drake White and the USO in support of service members for Military Appreciation Month

CHICAGO, May 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In honor of Military Appreciation Month, Keystone Light is partnering with the United Service Organizations (USO) and Country-Soul troubadour Drake White to rally communities across the country and give a Smooth Salute of gratitude to service members. Keystone Light's Smooth Salute program makes it easy for fans to send written thank you messages directly to their local USO centers. Now through July 31, fans who scan the QR code on the new limited-time Keystone Light Stars and Stripes packaging are able to send a thank you message directly to their community's USO center for their local service members. Fans who send a message will be entered for a chance to win* a trip to Nashville for a private military appreciation concert with Drake White and local service members at his barn on November 9th, 2024. Runner-ups also have the chance to win a commemorative t-shirt. "To kick off Military Appreciation Month, Keystone Light is proud to join forces with our long-time partner, the USO, to offer fans the chance to thank active-duty service members in our communities," said Frank Cirone, senior marketing director for Keystone Light. "Keystone Light has a long-standing relationship with the USO and is dedicated to supporting service members both through messages of encouragement and donations. We couldn't think of a better way to bring our shared mission and impact to life than with some cold Keystone Light and a concert with Drake White, a longtime advocate of the armed forces." Since 1941, the USO has been the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America's military and their families.  "We deeply appreciate Keystone Light's support of the USO and the people who serve in the U.S. military," said Brian Cowart, chief marketing and development officer for the USO." While we all don't serve in our nation's military, we all can certainly support those who do and their families. Keystone Light's campaign has made it easy to send a 'thank you' to local service members." Drake White has a longstanding relationship with the armed services, growing up with his Uncle Ron, who instilled the importance of service and community. Over the years, he has partnered with organizations like Miracle Hope Foundation and Creative Vets to support its members. For his partnership with Keystone Light, the artist-songwriter is helping spread the word about the Keystone Light Smooth Salute program via social assets and online video to encourage fans to participate, and he will host an exclusive concert for service members at his Whitewood Hollow barn in Nashville, Tennessee.  "Supporting this program is so important to me as I've met many veterans and active service members at my shows and throughout my travels over the years as well as in my own community," said Drake White. "I have so much respect for their dedication to our country and this is the least I could do to give back to them." The Keystone Light, Smooth Salute program is a full marketing campaign that includes limited-edition Summer and Stripe's thematic packaging, and creative assets across OOH, social, and retail channels. Check out the product locator at https://www.keystonelight.com/where-to-buy to find Keystone Light Stars and Stripes Summer Packing near you. For more updates on Keystone Light, Drake White, and USO partnership, including a video about the Smooth Salute program, fans can visit www.keystonelight.com/smoothsalute and follow @keystonelightofficial on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. *NO PURCHASE OR SCAN NECESSARY. Sweepstakes begins on 5/1/24 at 12:00 PM CT and ends on 7/31/24 at 11:59 PM CT. Open only to legal residents of 50 U.S. (D.C.), 21+ years of age. See Official Rules for details, including how to enter, odds, prize details & restrictions, at www.keystonelight.com/smoothsalute. Void where prohibited. ABOUT MOLSON COORS BEVERAGE COMPANY For more than two centuries, Molson Coors has brewed beverages that unite people for all life's moments. From Coors Light, Miller Lite, Molson Canadian, Carling, Madrí Excepcional and Staropramen to Coors Banquet, Blue Moon Belgian White, Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy, Vizzy Hard Seltzer, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Simply Spiked Lemonade, ZOA Energy, Blue Run Spirits, Creemore Springs and more, Molson Coors produces some of the most beloved and iconic brands in the beverage industry. While the company's history is rooted in beer, Molson Coors offers a modern portfolio that expands beyond the beer aisle with energy drinks, bottled spirits, ready-to-drink cocktails, cider and more. To learn more about Molson Coors Beverage Company, visit molsoncoors.com. ABOUT USO The USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America's military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of service members throughout their military service. Impactful support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more and support our critical mission around the globe, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and LinkedIn. ABOUT DRAKE WHITE Drake White grew up singing in his church's youth choir in Alabama before becoming one of Country music's most spirited innovators, earning four Top 40 hits and traveling the country on multiple nationwide tours. His 2013 debut single "Simple Life" introduced his brand of Country Soul, which he cemented with 2016 debut album SPARK followed by the EPs 'Pieces' and 'Stars.' In August 2019, he collapsed on stage due to a hemorrhagic stroke, and doctors told him he might never perform again. After undergoing a series of operations to repair his Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) and months of physiotherapy, White has proved them wrong, returning to the road to spread his incredible positivity to his fans. In 2022 he embarked on his headline THE OPTIMYSTIC TOUR, which spanned dates in the U.S. and the U.K., in support of his album THE OPTIMYSTIC, which is an inspiring glimpse into the journey he has taken over the past few years, and the "extremely accomplished album" (American Songwriter) delivers a "powerful message" (Nashville Lifestyles) via White's "smooth brand of country-soul" (Billboard). With more music on the way, White released his EP 'The Bridge' in October 2023 to mark a brand-new era of self-discovery and purpose, continuing with THE BRIDGE TOUR kicking off in Ponte Vedra, FL on February 22. White has received accolades including Rolling Stone's 10 Country Artists You Need to Know, The GRAMMY's Artist of Tomorrow and the British CMA Awards' International Song of the Year and has shared the bill with Country music superstars like Luke Bryan, Eric Church and Zac Brown Band, and co-headlined the BLOW UP YOUR TV tour with William Clark Green throughout the end of 2023.

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Athletic Brewing Company to Offer Free Brews on May 16

America's largest non-alcoholic brewery announces "Ask For Athletic Day," invites drinkers to enjoy a free brew

MILFORD, Conn. and SAN DIEGO, May 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Athletic Brewing Company, America's largest non-alcoholic brewery, will celebrate the inaugural "Ask For Athletic Day" during American Craft Beer Week by offering its award-winning non-alcoholic beer to fans across America. To toast the launch of its new "Ask For Athletic" campaign, Athletic Brewing will pick up the tab on your first brew for any consumer (21+) who visits a bar or restaurant on Thursday, May 16, and orders Athletic. "A growing number of Americans are moderating how much alcohol they consume, but that doesn't mean they should have to skip the party," said Andrew Katz, Chief Marketing Officer of Athletic Brewing Company. "We created Ask For Athletic Day as a way for people to discover the refreshing taste of Athletic Brewing's award-winning non-alcoholic beer by visiting their local bar or restaurant for a brew on us." Here's How Ask For Athletic Day Works: Step 1: Visit a bar or restaurant that sells Athletic on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Step 2: Ask your bartender or server for an Athletic NA Beer. Step 3: Upload your receipt on itsathletic.com and you will be reimbursed up to $7 via Venmo or Paypal. The Ask For Athletic Day offer is only valid for legal drinking-age consumers located in 39 U.S. states (excluding GA, ID, KS, KY, LA, MI, MS, NE, SC, TN, and TX). Please visit itsathletic.com for a complete list of terms and conditions. Offer limited to one claim per person. To find your nearest on-premise retailer, please visit the Athletic Brewing storefinder. The Ask For Athletic Day promotion coincides with the launch of Athletic Brewing's new summer brand campaign. Anchored by a multi-million dollar strategic media plan, the "Ask For Athletic" campaign is the company's biggest ever and designed to drive brand awareness through a mix of high-impact television, out-of-home, audio, and digital advertising, as well as influencer endorsements and nationwide sampling. Launched in 2018, Athletic Brewing is the number one non-alcoholic beer brand in the U.S., with over 19% market share and dollar sales growing more than 64%1. Athletic was recently ranked as the 10th largest U.S. craft brewery and 20th largest overall brewing company by the Brewers Association2. According to recent polling, 41% of Americans are trying to drink less alcohol in 20243. For press inquiries please contact: Chris Furnari | press@athleticbrewing.com About Athletic Brewing Athletic Brewing Company is the largest and most decorated non-alcoholic brewery in America. Athletic is revolutionizing how modern adults drink by crafting game-changing NA beer that can be consumed anytime and anywhere. Launched in 2018, Athletic is now the number one non-alcoholic beer brand in America1 and a top 20 U.S. brewing company2. Its award-winning brews are available at more than 50,000 retailers and 25,000 on-premise venues nationwide. Athletic operates custom breweries in Connecticut and California and donates up to $2 million annually to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces across the globe via its Two For The Trails program. Athletic is proudly a Certified B Corporation™. Learn more and shop at www.athleticbrewing.com. Follow Athletic Brewing on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube to stay up-to-date on all things Athletic.

FIFCO USA Invests $50M in the Genesee Brewery to Create World-Class Packaging Facility and Add Capacity

Brewery will Supplement Canadian Supply of Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light for New York and Pennsylvania to Meet Demand

ROCHESTER, N.Y., May 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FIFCO USA, parent-company of the Genesee Brewery and Labatt USA, recently announced plans to invest $50 million over three years to create a world-class packaging facility, as well as add capabilities and capacity for innovation to attract new contract manufacturing clients and supplement the Canadian supply of Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light. Earlier today, New York state announced a $7 million capital grant through Empire State Development to support the project. "Demand for Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light beer has outpaced our supply from Canada. Last year, we began working to develop a plan to continue modernizing our Rochester brewery while building its capacity to accommodate more volume," said Piotr Jurjewicz, CEO, FIFCO USA. "We're transforming our canning and innovation capabilities, adding tanks and upgrading equipment to grow our business and create a more efficient and sustainable operation." Along with its own brands, the brewery produces alcoholic beverages for a variety of leading companies across the U.S. Over the last 15 years, the Genesee Brewery has undergone $215 million in modernization and upgrades, including the installation of a world-class brewing system in 2018. The recent project is phase two of a company plan to modernize the brewery and position it for long-term growth in a competitive industry. "New York state's commitment to our brewery cemented our decision to invest $50 million to modernize and expand our capabilities," said Jurjewicz. "On behalf of hundreds of local employees, we're thankful for Governor Hochul's support and we are excited about the next chapter of our storied history." About Brewing Labatt Blue and Blue Light in Rochester Kevin Hryclik, Labatt USA Brewmaster in Canada, worked with the Rochester Brewing Team to ensure a perfect match. Hryclik, a 40-year Labatt employee, said consistency is key when brewing in multiple locations. "We have done extensive taste and sensory testing to ensure we deliver the same great taste and quality standards," said Hryclik. "It's typical to brew in multiple locations. It comes down to using the same recipe and sourcing the same raw ingredients to maintain the brand's distinctive flavor." The first shipments of select packages of Labatt Blue and Blue Light beer leave the brewery today for distribution in New York and Pennsylvania. About FIFCO USA FIFCO USA, headquartered in Rochester, New York, is among the top brewers in the U.S. FIFCO USA's portfolio includes Seagram's Escapes, Lipton Hard Iced Tea, Labatt USA, Genesee Brewing Company, and Magic Hat. FIFCO USA also brews beer and alcoholic beverages on behalf of other companies. For more information: https://www.fifcousa.com/ Always enjoy FIFCO USA beverages responsibly.