A Bold Fusion of Cultures: New Guinness Fonio Stout Honors African Heritage and Irish Tradition As Part of the Brewing for Impact Campaign

Guinness and Brooklyn Brewery Brewmaster Garrett Oliver Launch a Limited Time Beer to Celebrate the Power of Tradition and Innovation

NEW YORK, Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Guinness and Brooklyn Brewery have just announced the launch of Guinness Fonio Stout, a limited-edition beer brewed in support of the Brewing for Impact campaign - a collaborative initiative inspired by Brooklyn Brewery Brewmaster Garrett Oliver's pioneering work with ancient West African grain fonio. Now available in select locations in the greater New York area, this beer celebrates the rich global history of Guinness, blending their Irish heritage with the vibrancy of West African culture and the creative spirit Garrett Oliver. He's enjoyed a 30-year journey at Brooklyn Brewery driven by a fearless passion to perfect his craft, which has inspired the Brewing for Impact initiative, rooted in beer's power to unite people, cultures & traditions.

Together, they dive into new ways to highlight Fonio's versatility in brewing, showcasing how this remarkable ancient grain enhances this Guinness stout with a flavorful combination of roasted coffee, chocolate, and tropical fruits.

"Fonio Stout is an example of the magic that comes from blending the right amount of heritage and innovation, and we're thrilled about how this collaborative brew has captured the best of both Guinness and Brooklyn Brewery," said Joyce He, Guinness Brand Director. "Bringing our brewers together with Garrett Oliver and artist Kervin Brisseaux is a celebration that represents our commitment to pushing boundaries of creativity in brewing and cultivating social impact on a global level. Simply put, grab one while you can!"

Designed by Haitian American artist Kervin Brisseaux, the beer's packaging artwork celebrates Guinness's centuries-long history in Africa, blended with the cultural heartbeats of Brooklyn. You'll find several nods to both within the illustrations, from subway cars to fonio grains to the likeness of Garrett Oliver himself.   

"Guinness is the first beer I ever loved," said Oliver. "And to be able to share my passion for brewing and for sustainability by creating this Fonio Stout for a brand that's known for cultivating connections across the globe - well, it's been a dream realized. Working together, Guinness and I have the same vision - to ensure no matter where you are in the world or how you choose to celebrate, there's a great beer to help you enjoy yourself."

In partnership with the Brewing for Impact initiative, Guinness proudly supports The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling, founded by Garrett Oliver, with a $10,000 donation via the Guinness Gives Back Fund, to support their efforts in funding technical education and career advancement for Black, Indigenous, and people of color in brewing and distilling.

With an ABV of 6.2%, Guinness Fonio Stout is available exclusively in New York, Northern New Jersey, and select regional chains while supplies last through December 31, 2024. It's available in four-packs of 16 oz. cans at a suggested retail price of $13.99 and is also available at our local Open Gate Breweries in Chicago and Baltimore.

Guinness and Brooklyn Brewery are celebrating the launch of this limited-edition beer with an exclusive launch event at Brooklyn Brewery in New York City, alongside partners African Chophouse. The public is invited to attend specialty beer dinners to enjoy Guinness Fonio Stout alongside a curated dining experience highlighting the Fonio grain at Guinness' stateside breweries in Baltimore and Chicago.

  • Guinness Fonio Stout Beer Dinner @ Open Gate Brewery Chicago – Monday, November 18th, 6-10pm CT (More Information Here)
  • Guinness Fonio Stout Beer Dinner @ Open Gate Brewery Baltimore – Thursday, November 21st, 6-10pm ET (More Information Here)

Guinness x Brooklyn Brewery: Reimagining what beer can be. No matter where you're enjoying a Guinness, whether you're in Brooklyn, Ireland or sipping a pint off the western coast of Africa, remember to always savor each sip and celebrate responsibly!

About the Brewing for Impact Campaign: 

Launched in celebration of James Beard Award Winning Brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery's 30th anniversary with the brewery, Brewing for Impact is a global initiative that has united breweries from around the world in a mission to drive social change through beer. Inspired by Oliver's pioneering work with fonio—an ancient West African grain lauded for its resilience and cultural significance—the campaign brings together renowned brewing partners including Guinness along with Maison Kalao from Senegal, Thornbridge from the UK, Omnipollo from Sweden, Carlsberg from Denmark, Russian River from the US, Jing-A from China, and Brooklyn Brewery itself. This year, each brewery has created a unique beer featuring fonio, honoring the grain's role in African heritage and supporting the livelihoods of West African farmers, predominantly women-led. Through Brewing for Impact, Garrett Oliver and his collaborators are reimagining the brewing landscape, using innovative ingredients to celebrate global heritage and inspire the next generation of brewers worldwide.

About Guinness

The Guinness brand was established in 1759, when Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000 year lease on St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin. Brewed using four main ingredients, water, barley (malted & roasted), hops and yeast, Guinness is the world's most popular stout. The iconic beer is brewed in 49 countries worldwide and sold in over 150 with almost 9 million glasses of Guinness enjoyed every day around the world. The most GUINNESS is sold in Great Britain, Ireland, USA, Nigeria and Cameroon. More information can be found at www.guinness.com.

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

About Brooklyn Brewery: 

Brooklyn Brewery is a leading global independent craft brewer and a pioneer of the American craft beer revolution. From our home in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, we are always in the making, drawing inspiration from our local community of innovators, makers, and doers to spread the culture and creativity of craft beer to 30 states and over 30 countries on 5 continents. Learn more at brooklynbrewery.com.


Genesee Brewery Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Iconic Keg Tree Lighting

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Genesee Brewery's Iconic Keg Tree will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a tree lighting party at the Genesee Brew House, 25 Cataract St., Rochester, NY 14605 on Friday, December 6 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thousands of spectators and Genesee enthusiasts are expected to join in festivities that will include the lighting of a three-story tree, constructed from 650 empty beer kegs wrapped in 25,000 twinkling lights. Holiday music, food trucks and plenty of ice-cold Genesee beer is available throughout the event. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to attend. No pets allowed.

"We love our hometown of Rochester and people have shown their commitment to Genesee over our long history here," said Tiffany Bowman, Genesee brand manager. "We're gathering together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the most iconic holiday tradition in New York state – Genesee's Keg Tree Lighting." 

Dean Jones, Genesee Brew House brewmaster, will light the tree.

"Genesee Keg Tree has been bringing people together for 10 years now. We will raise our glass to the 10th anniversary of our three-story tree and toast the generations of people, traditions and fun that happens when we gather in the cold with a Genesee beer in-hand," said Bowman.

10th Anniversary Genesee Keg Tree Lighting Event Highlights:

Keg Tree Lighting: The countdown begins at 6:30 p.m. and the epic Keg Tree Lighting follows, which includes the lights twinkling to popular holiday favorites, animated on a lighted board.

Music, Food and Entertainment: The event features eight food trucks, four beer trucks and the event's signature Keg Tree Ale, a cinnamon version of the iconic Genesee Cream Ale, as well as a classic, fan-favorite Genesee 12-Horse Ale, which is back in cans due to popular demand. Holiday music will play throughout the night.

New 10th Anniversary Genesee Keg Tree Merchandise: Commemorative merchandise will be available throughout the event and include collectibles like Genesee branded mistletoe.

Holiday Photography Opportunities: Guests can pose in an oversized red sleigh, hand crafted by Genesee's union carpenters or in front of a lighted 12-Horse Ale sign! There will also be plenty of other social moments throughout the event!

Parking: Attendees are encouraged to use a ride share service. If parking, please use the High Falls Garage since there will be limited spots available around the brewery.  

Situated next to the largest urban waterfall in the U.S., the Genesee Keg Tree will remain lit throughout the holiday season, making it a must-see attraction for locals and visitors alike. Attendees are encouraged to capture and share their experience by tagging @GeneseeBrewery on social media.

About Genesee Brewing Company

Established in 1878, the Genesee Brewery—New York state's oldest brewery—makes the classic Genesee line of beers, Cream Ale and the Original Honey Brown Lager, as well as Seagram's Escapes. The Genesee Brewing Company is owned by FIFCO USA. For more information, please go to: https://www.fifcousa.com/ For more information, visit www.geneseebeer.com

Always drink responsibly.



Holidaily Brewing Company Earns Coveted U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO--100 Award, Recognizing America's Top 100 Small Businesses

GOLDEN, Colo., Nov. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Holidaily Brewing Company, the nation's leading dedicated gluten-free brewery, is proud to announce its inclusion in the prestigious U.S. Chamber of Commerce's CO—100 Award list for 2024. This exclusive list recognizes 100 of the best and brightest small and mid-sized businesses across America.

Holidaily Brewing Company was selected from a pool of over 14,000 nominations submitted nationwide. Ten winners were named for ten different categories. Holidaily was granted an award within the Disruptor Category, sponsored by Dell, which "celebrates businesses that have boldly ventured into uncharted territory by introducing groundbreaking products or services, or by redefining traditional business structures."

As noted on the Chamber's website, the businesses selected embody innovation and creativity, challenging the status quo and setting new industry benchmarks. From pioneering new markets to revolutionizing operational models, these businesses exemplify the spirit of disruption—by dreaming big and bringing those visions to life.

"We are beyond thrilled to be recognized as one of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's top 100 small businesses," said Karen Hertz, Founder and CEO of Holidaily Brewing Company. "This recognition affirms that we are indeed sparking a revolution, crafting a gluten-free product that everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste." Hertz and COO, Laura Ukowich, attended a two-day celebration and forum in Washington DC hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and featuring VIP guest and Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes, who shared her inspiring journey from champion gymnast to trailblazing entrepreneur.

In addition to winning the Chamber's prestigious award, Holidaily Brewing Company is excited announced the launch of a crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine, aimed at expanding their production capabilities and distribution network. This campaign will allow beer enthusiasts and supporters of gluten-free products to invest in the future of Holidaily, helping the company to meet growing demand and continue innovating in the craft beer industry.

"We're announcing our first ever opportunity for the Gluten-Free and Beer Communities to become a part of our business community," Founder, Karen Hertz shared. "We want to continue growing, innovating, and creating the best gluten-free beers out there, while building a family of investors who want to be ambassadors for Holidaily."  This initiative reflects the innovative and disruptive spirit celebrated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's CO—100 Award.

Furthermore, Holidaily recently celebrated a significant victory at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF), where their Fat Randy's IPA was awarded a Gold Medal. This accolade is a testament to the brewery's commitment to quality and excellence in brewing, further solidifying their reputation as a leader in the gluten-free beer market.

About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO—100 Award

The CO—100 Award - Each year, the award committee selects 100 companies that reflect the spirit of American entrepreneurship and resilience, with particular attention to companies that are changing the game in their respective sectors.

For more information on the CO-100, visit https://www.uschamber.com/co/co-100#the-2024-full-list.

About Holidaily Brewing Company

Founded in 2016, Holidaily Brewing Company is the largest dedicated gluten-free brewery in the United States. Located in Golden, Colorado, the brewery was created out of Karen Hertz's passion for quality craft beer and her personal experience surviving cancer (twice) and gluten intolerance. With a mission to provide safe, gluten-free beer without sacrificing flavor, Holidaily has grown to become a leader in the gluten-free beer market, offering award-winning brews that cater to both gluten-free and non-gluten-free beer enthusiasts alike.

Holidaily's beers, including their popular Favorite Blonde and Buckwit Belgian ales, are brewed in a 100% gluten-free facility to ensure the highest level of safety for those with gluten sensitivities. With regional distribution and a thriving local taproom, Holidaily continues to make waves in the craft beer industry.

For more information on Holidaily Brewing Company, visit www.holidailybrewing.com. To learn more about Holidaily Brewing and join their crowdfunding campaign, visit https://www.startengine.com/offering/holidaily-brewing.



Steve Hauser to Step Down as President and CEO of Paulaner USA at Year's End

Hauser leaves behind a legacy of growth, expanded portfolio, and record success-

WHITE PLAINS, N.J., Nov. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Steve Hauser, President and CEO of Paulaner USA, will be leaving the company at the end of the year. Hauser has served as CEO since 2014 and has grown the importer from a two-brand, on-premise focused portfolio to a multi-brand, multi-channel business, including expansion into the grocery and convenience channels.

"We would like to thank Steve Hauser for his work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to our brewery group. We wish him well for the future. We will continue to build on his legacy," says Jörg Biebernick, CEO of the Paulaner Brewery Group. Some of the major accomplishments during Steve Hauser's tenure to date include refining Paulaner USA's overall portfolio by growing the core group brands and adding significant business by securing the rights to Tsingtao, China's leading export beer.

He took over Paulaner USA as an importer with significant draft volume and a focus on Oktoberfest sales. Today, the portfolio is almost equally split between on and off-trade, with the majority of business coming from year-round sales. To date, the Paulaner Group's brands are enjoying their best year yet, with impressive growth.

"Of all the things I am most proud of during my tenure, it is the development of a clear route to market/sales strategy, the introduction/better use of data analytics to drive our sales presentations and the development of a corporate culture based on professionalism, trust and collaboration. I am confident that I am leaving behind a motivated and passionate team that will serve the brands well in the future," says Hauser. 

About Paulaner USA

Paulaner USA is headquartered in White Plains, New York, and imports Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Tsingtao and Fuller's. More information can be found at http://paulanerusa.com.

About Paulaner

The Paulaner Brewery is one of the largest breweries in Munich, Bavaria in Germany and is part of the Paulaner Brewery Group. The Paulaner Brewery Group unites the brands Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Auer Bräu, Hopf and Thurn and Taxis. Since 1634, Paulaner has represented the finest brewing tradition for top quality crafted beer specialties in Germany and world-wide. Founded (and still being brewed) in Munich, Paulaner and Hacker-Pschorr are two of the six brands allowed to be served at the world-famous Oktoberfest.

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