Brews News Week #404 Ascendant

·33 min·3 clips

Why does a $2.8 billion company like Lion need a million-dollar government grant to keep its visitor center open?

The episode opens with a recap of the GABS Hottest 100 countdown results, where Mountain Culture took first place. The hosts then dive into the main news story: Lion's decision to close the James Boag's Visitor Centre in Launceston was reversed after the Tasmanian government announced a million-dollar support package. Sabrina and Matt critique Lion's $2.8 billion revenue and lack of tax payment, questioning the grant's necessity and suggesting the money could better support regional beer tourism. They discuss Lion's cost-cutting measures and brand neglect. Next, they cover Mighty Craft's second-quarter results, highlighting 91% revenue growth driven by Better Beer, which sold 3.2 million litres. The hosts note that Mighty Craft's craft beer acquisitions have not scaled successfully, raising concerns about the company's dependence on Better Beer and potential sale scenarios. A report on New Zealand's brewing industry reveals it contributes $3.3 billion to the economy. The episode includes a follow-up on Two Mates Brewing, which is moving its production facility due to flood risks while trying to maintain its community hub identity. VB's partnership with Jimmy Brings for a Bluetooth fridge magnet that orders beer is highlighted as an innovative tech integration. The hosts also mention a Beer as a Conversation interview with Jess Walker and Dennis DeBoer from White Bay Beer Co. and a new yeast product from Bluestone Yeast. They conclude with a positive review of Capital Brewing in Canberra, praising its venue and demographic appeal.

As heard by us

A focused Hottest 100 roundtable connects the poll results to Better Beer's momentum and Mighty Craft's unresolved pressures.

Episode 404 reframes Gab's Hottest 100 as more than a countdown. After the five-hour live broadcast, the hosts return with a tighter news roundtable, moving from Mountain Culture at number one, Bolter XBA at number two, and Crank Shaft at number three into what the result says…

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Why you'd press play

You want the Hottest 100 top three with a side of brewery business tension.

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