Nebraska’s Kros Strain Brewing partners with CODO Design to develop new branding and packaging

Kros Strain Brewing Co. is a startup brewery on the outskirts of Omaha in La Vista, Neb. Last November we flew out to the home of the Huskers, giant blue skies and some amazing steaks to spend the day getting to know Bobby Kros and Scott Strain. They shared with us their vision of Kros Strain Brewing not only as a producer of great beer, but also as a place and brand that celebrates the vibrancy of life. Nebraska, as they see it, is a land of family-oriented cyclists, dog-lovers, tailgaters and hunters. Hard working people who love to get outside and have fun.

With their vision and values in mind, we created a brand identity that felt fresh and true to Nebraska without veering into cliché midwestern stereotypes. This gave way to a flagship lineup of three 6-packs and a few bombers where we paired their base color palette (cream, black and gold) with bursts of color and painted illustrations.

Helles Creek

 

Named after Hell Creek, which runs through Omaha and into the Papio creek behind the brewery, this easy drinking lager is perfect for a summer day or anytime you are looking for that traditional taste. With some light malt sweetness and no bitterness, Helles Creek is the perfect complement to just about everything.

Dark Paradise

Dark, yet light and easy drinking, this amber ale is a bit roastier than a typical amber ale. It’s actually closer to a roasty version of an English-Style Mild ale. It doesn’t really fit into neat style descriptions, but it does drink well. Think light notes of chocolate with coffee.

Fairy Nectar

This hazy, juicy treat is packed with a ton of aromatic hops at the end of the boil and dry-hopped with a round of Citra and Mosaic hops. This IPA is hugely aromatic with little bitterness and a light body. You’ll experience notes of grapefruit, mango, tropical goodness.

This column was provided by the folks at CODO Design, a five-man branding firm based in Indianapolis, IN. They’ve worked with breweries across the United States and around the world, on naming, branding and positioning, responsive web design, and package design. They’ve gathered their experience into a comprehensive Craft Beer Branding Guide to help startup breweries navigate the entire branding process. Check it out at www.craftbeerbrandingguide.com.