Craft breweries that choose to self-distribute their beer have to overcome a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is simply getting their beer into the hands of consumers. Because craft breweries are typically smaller and less well-known than larger, mainstream breweries, they may have a harder time getting their products placed on store shelves and taps at bars and restaurants.
One way that craft breweries can overcome this challenge is by differentiating themselves from those larger well known breweries. Building strong relationships with local retailers and is an important part of that differentiation. By working closely with these partners, craft breweries can gain a better understanding of the local market and find ways to get their products in front of more potential customers.
Leveraging available tools such as pdlr can also be a good way to differentiate themselves. Using a mobile app such as pdlr provides an easier and more streamlined way for bars, restaurants and retailers to find and order their beer. This can also lead to higher customer satisfaction through a more positive purchasing experience.
Another challenge that craft breweries may face when self distributing their beer is the cost of distribution. Selling, transporting and distributing beer can be a costly endeavor, especially for smaller breweries that may not have the economies of scale enjoyed by larger breweries. To offset these costs, breweries should be looking at ways to reduce the amount of down-time and travel to maximize the ROI of their efforts. Utilizing B2B e-commerce tools such as pdlr that manage orders and inventory can be a more cost-effective way of getting their products into the hands of consumers.
Ultimately, self distributing beer can be a challenging endeavor for craft breweries, but with hard work, strong relationships, and leveraging technology such as pdlr, it is possible for these breweries to succeed in a competitive market.