Hi all. I've recently been brought on by Robert and Sonat Birnecker of Koval Distillery and Kothe Distilling Technologies to form a Distillers Guild geared towards promoting the common interests of the distilling industry operating in the Midwest: IL, IN, IA, KS, MI, MN, MO, NE, ND, OH, SD, WI. The association's goal is to promote the common interests of small artisan distilleries located throughout those states by organizing lobbying efforts for improved legislation related to craft distilleries.
I know that Robert and Sonat Birnecker have already talked with many of you in the above states and that a lot of you are enthusiastic about forming the Guild. Benefits that could become available to dues paying members of the Guild include:
sharing knowledge about industry standards as they affect small distillery start-ups
sharing costs of advertising with a "buy Midwest" focus
cost savings of coordinated group orders for distilling equipment, supplies and raw materials
organizing and building solidarity to improve laws related to craft distilleries
lobbying for improved legislation related to craft distilleries
group medical insurance
developing a newsletter addressing items of interest to the Midwestern craft distillery community
greater internet presence for Midwestern brands with links to all member websites
forming a network to increase brand awareness, marketing and advertising
My role is to get the ball rolling on the Guild. I'd really like to hear about any ideas, thoughts or concerns you might have in forming the Guild. You can also e-mail me at Jennifer@kothe-distilling.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
