It is not surprising that in 2025, that craft beer is stuck in major turbulence. Customer choices have led to craft beer and other spirits being considered of the past. Not trendy to put it bluntly.
Economics and American business theory roar into play for both good and bad. So now you have Fort Point and HenHouse merging forces.
Is that good or an ominous sign? Will there be more?
Well, capitalism does not reward business that do things right all the time and often rewards those who are a net negative to the world. There is not an economic system that is neutral. But if two companies can co-exist while not losing their uniqueness then it can be a smart move and can always be unspun when situations improve.
With the brewing community be tight knit and collaborative, I would not doubt that more dual operations do come into being to ride out the storm of the last four years and the next as things get more grim in the world.
So, it is hopeless right? That would be easy. In this year, in our shitty U.S., I veer that way. But, what if we true beer fans buy from true beer people? What happens?
I think that the dollar ( as devalued as it is now) will speak. Maybe sotte vocce but still.
If you feel devalued. If you feel unheard. Buy Fort Point. Buy HenHouse. But from your local. I am one but craft beer, well as Musk might put it, is legion.