Five Central Oregon craft beverage brands have united. They formed a new entity. It is called the Oregon Beverage Collective (OBC). This strategic partnership includes Crux Fermentation Project. Silver Moon Brewing is also a member. Cascade Lakes Brewing Co. joins the group. GoodLife Brewing is part of the collective. Tumalo Cider completes the lineup.
The goal is clear. It is to preserve local legacy brands. The OBC aims to foster community investment. It ensures a sustainable future for regional beverages. This move comes amid a changing industry. Rising costs are a major factor. These include expenses for raw materials. Cans and labor costs are also increasing.
Collaboration offers a solution. The collective seeks economies of scale. This involves sharing resources. Combined purchasing power is a key benefit. It allows for greater operational efficiency. This partnership helps brands push back against rising costs. It ensures their continued success.
Each brand brings unique strengths. Crux Fermentation Project started in 2012. It is known for innovative brewing methods. Larry Sidor, a co-founder, praised the alliance. Silver Moon Brewing began in 2000. It is a long-standing community hub. Steve Augustyn of Silver Moon will serve as CEO. Cascade Lakes Brewing was founded in 1994. It is Oregon’s first not-for-profit brewery. Andy Rhine, owner of Cascade Lakes, is the OBC President. GoodLife Brewing was established in 2011. It focuses on well-balanced beers. Tumalo Cider crafts artisan ciders. They emphasize complex apple profiles.
The Rhine family, owners of Cascade Lakes Brewing, acquired Crux Fermentation Project. Crux will operate independently within the collective. Its facility in Bend will become a primary production hub. Brewing and canning operations will be consolidated there. This centralizes key production. Administrative and distribution functions will also be shared. This creates a more streamlined operation. Founders Paul Evers and Larry Sidor are stepping back. They expressed confidence in the new leadership.
This collective ensures brand continuity. Each brand will keep its identity. Taprooms will continue to operate independently. The OBC intends to retain existing employees. This commitment safeguards local jobs. It preserves the unique character of each brewery. Consumers can still enjoy their favorite local beverages. The goal is not to erase brands. It is to strengthen them together.
The formation of the Oregon Beverage Collective is a significant development. It highlights resilience in the craft beverage sector. This news impacts the Oregon beer scene. It demonstrates a proactive approach. Brands are uniting to face industry pressures. They aim to thrive for years to come. The collective’s vision promises a brighter future. It supports local legacy and innovation. This collaboration is a powerful step forward. It benefits producers and consumers alike.
