The recently formed Alberta Small Brewers Association (ASBA) is pleased to announce the appointment of its first Executive Director and the launch of its new website, found at www.albertabrewers.ca.
ASBA is a not-for-profit trade association formed to promote local Alberta-brewed beer in one of the most competitive beer markets in the world.
The new website will be the focal point for sharing news relevant to the Alberta brewing industry as well as promoting Alberta beer via the Association's social media programs. ASBA will celebrate the entrepreneurs driving the industry forward, recognize local supporters of Alberta beer, and educate the public on the benefits of fresh, local beer.
In its goal of expanding the Alberta brewing industry, ASBA has appointed Dr. Greg Zeschuk to act as the first Executive Director of the organization. "I'm exceptionally excited to be working with such a locally-committed group of entrepreneurs and business people as the Executive Director of the Alberta Small Brewers Association," says Dr. Zeschuk.
"Alberta's open beer market creates unique challenges for local breweries and I'm looking forward to working with the AGLC and Alberta Government to help create an environment where these local businesses have an opportunity to flourish and grow."
Greg is a passionate supporter of a strong local beer community and would like to see Alberta's brewers flourish and compete with Canadian powerhouses in BC, Quebec and Ontario.
He is a beer writer/commentator for AskMen (www.askmen.com) and the host of a web show called The Beer Diaries (www.thebeerdiaries.tv). The former medical doctor and entrepreneur is best known as one of the co-founders of Edmonton-based gaming giant BioWare (www.bioware.com).
The Alberta Small Brewers Association represents brewers with the majority of their production based in Alberta, and currently represents 14 locally-owned and managed breweries.
"Brewing has traditionally been a locally focused industry, and given the high levels of external competition in Alberta's market it's extremely valuable for Alberta's local brewers speak with one voice to promote our collective interests," says Neil Herbst, President of the Alley Kat Brewing Company and Chairman of ASBA.
ASBA also acts as a voice for Alberta craft brewers in matters related to the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. "A vibrant brewing industry is an all-around win for Alberta's economy and consumers. The Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission looks forward to working with the Alberta Small Brewers Association and exploring opportunities for further growth in local beer production," said Bill Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission.
