Colorado craft beer leaders unite to reshape Denver's brewing scene
- Charlie Berger has been instrumental in connecting Colorado's craft beer leaders since co-founding Denver Beer Company nearly 15 years ago.
- The creation of Wilding Brands resulted from collaboration among established Colorado craft beverage producers to secure the future of their industry.
- This initiative is a game-changer for the Denver craft beer scene, promising to maintain the essence of beloved local brands while innovating for sustainability.
In Colorado, a significant shift is occurring in the craft beer industry, led by a dedicated sixth-generation Coloradan, Charlie Berger. After being inspired by his initial experiences working at Great Divide Brewing Company, Berger co-founded Denver Beer Company nearly 15 years ago. His journey in the craft beer realm blossomed into a mission to unite various producers under the banner of Wilding Brands, a collaborative effort aimed at securing the future of beloved local beers. The formation of Wilding Brands was motivated by long-standing relationships among Colorado's beverage producers who gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities within their industry. This newly formed alliance consists of well-known names such as Denver Beer Co. and Stem Ciders, which recently expanded by acquiring two popular breweries in Denver: Station 26 Brewing Co. and Great Divide Brewing. Berger emphasizes that this approach represents a transformative business model for Colorado and potentially the entire country, indicating a shift towards consolidation as a response to economic uncertainties in the market. Berger's vision ensures that even as these brands come together, the essence of each brewery remains intact, thus assuring customers that their favorite beers will be preserved. The focus is on building a sustainable future for these businesses through strategic mergers and acquisitions while maintaining their independent operations. Berger’s commitment to founder-owned and founder-run establishments remains paramount, and he aspires to instill confidence and excitement among consumers about the vibrant craft beer landscape. As Wilding Brands embarks on this journey of reshaping Denver's craft beer scene, it stands as a testament to the innovation and resilience of Colorado’s craft beverage community. By preserving the individuality of each brand while benefiting from collaboration, Berger and his team are set to navigate and thrive in a complex industry environment. This proactive approach not only aims to enhance the consumer experience but also fosters a sense of community among breweries committed to their craft.