Craft Beverage Expo (CBExpo) — a trade expo and conference for the entire artisan beverage industry – recently wrapped up its third annual meeting at the Oakland Convention Center, attracting professionals from across the craft beer, wine, cider, mead and spirits market.
This year’s theme — The Elements of Craft — brought together the four elements of a successful craft beverage operation: quality, branding, loyalty and relationships. These elements were woven into the education sessions and presentations from hand-chosen experts throughout the three-day conference. CBExpo also provided invaluable networking opportunities — bringing together artisan beverage masters from all segments to connect and learn.
In addition to a full education program, CBExpo enjoyed a sold-out expo floor with exhibitors showcasing products and services to the rapidly expanding craft beverage marketplace. Networking events, including the renowned Garagiste Festival — dubbed “one of wines premier events” by the Los Angeles Times — allowed attendees from all sectors of the artisan beverage community to mingle.
Below are a ton of photos to verify all of what was just said:
Opening General Session Presenters (left to right): Josh Jensen of Calera Winery, Matt Hofmann of Westland Distillery, Vinnie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing Co., Bruce Nissen of Jester and Judge, and Damien Wilson of Sonoma Wine Business School.
Techbyte Sessions at the ThinFilm TechBar.
Fireside Chats at CBEA Central.
Craft Beverage Education Association at CBEA Central.
Alyssa Rapp of AJR Ventures speaking at Content Marketing: The Not So Secret Weapon of Craft.
Navigating the Currents of Change: Distribution.
Chris McElwain of LaRiviere Grubman, PC speaking at Battle of the Brands: Avoiding Common Trademark Pitfalls
Craft beer selection: Opening Reception
Matthew Hofmann of Westland Distillery discussing his single malt whiskey at the Opening Reception.
Exhibition Hall chats.
Just hanging out.
Fireside Chat with Alan Kropf of Anchor Distilling Co. and Dave Engbers of Founders Brewing Co.
Panelists at Making Events Produce for Your Brand (left to right): Mecaela Miller of The Rooted Fork, Sarah Montague of FARM Napa Valley and JaM Cellars, Rod Santos of Drake’s Brewing Co. and Fearon May DeWeese of Fearon May Events.
Closing General Session panelists (left to right): Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon Vineyard, Alan Kropf of Anchor Distilling Co., Rhonda Kallman of Boston Harbor Distillery, Dave Engbers of Founders Brewing Co., Ken Schramm of Schramm’s Mead and CBExpo Executive Director, Kellie Shevlin.
Third annual Craft Beverage Expo a success — here are the photos to prove it https://t.co/N3PK8bhgYO via @craftbrewingbiz