At this time of year, I can’t help but to look inward and reflect. I am most thankful for my family and friends, whose support has allowed me to be involved in an industry I love for the past 17+ years. Yes, that industry is the craft beer industry, and yes it really has been 17+ years. (Talk about getting old!)
I am thankful for all the people involved in Terrapin Beer Company, both here today and those from the past. Yes, we have really great employees. But this also applies to our suppliers, distributors, retailers, and customers; so many amazing people I have met at one time or another. If it were not for each and every one of you, Terrapin would not be where we are today.
I am thankful for everyone else involved in the craft beer industry. A rising tide really does lift all boats. Other local breweries are not our competition. There are now over 2,100 breweries in the US and we only account for 6-7% of the beer being sold. We are working together to promote better beer. And it is working! To those of you who have plans to open a brewery in Athens or elsewhere in Georgia: GO FOR IT! I am here to help if you need it; don’t be afraid to call and ask for advice.
Last, but by no means least, I am thankful for the people of Athens who have stood by Spike and I as we have built this crazy dream of ours into something starting to resemble a real business. There have been some crazy twists along the way, and I’m sure there will be more in the future. Even now, after all these years, we are still learning as we go. Athens, we could not have done it without you. Thank you for everything.
Cheers,
John
John at Terrapin 