An update from ABA Executive Director Kendra Penland:

• ABA Membership has more tripled since November 2015, from 48 members (32 Breweries, 16 Associate Members) to 164 members (57 Breweries, 107 Associate Members)
• ABA successfully launched the AVL Beer Fan program & AVL Beer Expo
• 2016 AVL Beer Week had its largest participation in its 5-year history with 76 events held over 8 days during 2016 AVL Beer Week, and secured its first regional marketing buys (exposures in 8 states, 5 publications).
• ABA has increased its and its members’ visibility in a variety of traditional and industry print, radio, tv, and digital outlets, and, as a result, is now more recognized in the AVL/WNC community, NC, across the country, and internationally. ABA provided data, tours, and points of contact for international beer importers, Canadian trade officials, and journalists.
• ABA has a more consistent, productive, effective relationship with NC CBG, ABC, and ALE. Additionally, partnerships have been brokered with the Asheville Independent Restaurant Association, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce/EDC, the Outdoor Gear Builders, NC Dept of Agriculture’s Commerce/export division, etc.