It’s Not Too Late to Submit Your Nomination for the 2010 Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award!

Submit your nomination today!  The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Brewers Association (BA) are seeking nominations for the Fourth Annual Craft Beer Distributor of the Year award.  The award recognizes an American beer distributor who actively markets, sells and promotes craft beer.  The award will be presented September 18, 2010, at the Great American Beer Festival, hosted by the BA, in Denver, Colorado.

America’s beer distributors and craft brewers can nominate any distributor they believe is deserving of the award.  Nominations will be accepted until July 20, 2010, so don’t delay!  Nominate a deserving distributor today by clicking here. To read entry rules and award criteria, click here.

“The entrepreneurial spirit of craft brewers continues to add energy and excitement to the American beer industry,” said NBWA President Craig Purser.  “Their continued growth, despite a tough economic climate and a decline in overall beer sales last year, demonstrates American consumers’ appreciation for craft beer.  It is this excitement that fuels the more than 1,500 breweries in the U.S.”

In 2009, small and independent American brewers saw volume increase 7.2 percent over 2008, representing a growth of 613,992 barrels or about 8.5 million cases, according to new data released by the BA.

“American consumers are embracing new beer brands and innovative beer styles that distributors help introduce to local stores, bars and restaurants,” continued Purser.  “Beer distributors take great pride in being a part of the American beer distribution system which offers nearly 13,000 labels of beer to consumers from coast to coast.”

Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian applauded beer distributors for providing a valuable service by giving craft beers a presence in the marketplace.  “Without America’s beer distributors, we wouldn’t be seeing the enthusiasm for the wide array of flavor and diversity of American beer.  This award recognizes the extra efforts distributors are making on behalf of craft beer.”

In addition to the Craft Beer Distributor of the Year award, a Craft Beer Achievement award and Craft Beer Distributor Recognition award will also be presented to finalists.

For additional information, please contact NBWA Industry Affairs Assistant Kelsey Lamb at 800-300-6417 or klamb@nbwa.org.