5 affordable ways to promote your brewery and attract customers
If you run a brewery, bar, or work in the food and hospitality world, you know it’s not just about brewing great beer, it’s about pouring the right attention on your brand too. With plenty of competition on tap, you’ve got to find smart ways to stand out and keep people coming back for more. From digital marketing to good old-fashioned word of mouth, there are lots of ways to promote your brewery without breaking the bank. The secret is knowing your audience and serving up strategies that really click with them. To help you get started, here are five tips worth raising a glass to.
- Create a presence on social media
These days, social media is often the first place people discover new spots, so your brewery needs to show up and stand out. Start by setting up profiles with all the right info like opening hours, location, and links to your taproom menu or events. Then go beyond just posting promotions. Tell your brand story. Share behind-the-scenes clips of your brewers working, show the brewing process from hops to pour, and post fun facts about your beer styles. Live stream your trivia nights or beer tastings, share reels of customers enjoying flights, and post stories of limited-edition releases before they sell out. The more personality and authenticity you bring, the more people will want to visit your brewery in person.
- Keep your customers updated with emails
Email marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to stay connected with your customers and keep your brewery top of mind. Use it to send out reminders about weekly specials, happy hour deals, or new seasonal beers on tap. Emails are also a great way to invite your regulars to brewery events like tasting nights, live music sessions, or new beer launches.
If you offer a loyalty program, keep your customers excited by sending them updates on their points, rewards, or exclusive member-only offers. You can even add a personal touch by sending birthday emails with a free drink voucher or early access to new releases. Think of your email list as your direct line to your most loyal fans. It’s where you can make them feel part of your brewery family while also driving them back through your doors.
- Host fun events
Events are a great way to draw people into your brewery and create lasting memories that keep them coming back. Think beyond just beer tastings. Host trivia nights, karaoke evenings, live music performances, or even brewery tours where guests can learn about the brewing process firsthand. Seasonal events also work wonders, like Oktoberfest celebrations, summer BBQs in your outdoor space, or holiday-themed parties with limited-edition brews.
- Spread the word with flyers
Traditional marketing still works, and flyers are a simple way to get people through your doors. Use free poster maker tools like PosterMyWall to create professional-looking flyers and posters that match your brewery’s vibe. Include eye-catching visuals of your beers, your logo, and your taproom atmosphere.
Add useful details like your address, opening hours, and upcoming events. Tear-off tabs with your contact info or a QR code linking to your website or social media make it even easier for people to find you. Place them in local coffee shops, community boards, or partner businesses, and hand them out during events or festivals. You can even take your own photos and use tools like AI background remover to eliminate unwanted noise, focus on the product and make them look professional. Flyers are a low-cost, effective way to grab attention and bring new visitors into your brewery.
- Promote seasonal specials
Seasonal beers and limited-time offers are a great way to get people excited about visiting your brewery. Whether it’s a pumpkin ale in the fall, a refreshing summer shandy, or a holiday spiced brew, make sure your customers know what’s on tap. Highlight these specials on social media, email newsletters, and in your taproom with eye-catching signage.
You can also create themed events around your seasonal releases, like a summer tasting flight or a winter holiday launch party. Limited-time specials create urgency, give your regulars something to look forward to, and often attract new visitors who want to try something unique before it’s gone.
Conclusion
Promoting your brewery doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little creativity, some clever planning, and a focus on what makes your brand unique, you can attract more visitors, keep regulars coming back, and get people talking about your beers. Remember, marketing is just another way to share your passion for brewing. When done right, it’s a recipe for success you can raise a glass to. Cheers to putting your brewery on everyone’s radar, one pint at a time!