Utilizing community outreach has allowed Great Northern Brewing to connect with people beyond just serving them a pint. The veteran brewery has been in the same location in downtown Whitefish, Montana since 1995 and they say they have been hell-bent on brewing great beer and providing great experiences for everyone who comes through the doors.
“It sparks conversation, breeds partnerships and contributes to the overall growth and vibrancy of not only our brewery but our community as well,” said Niki Bates, the Retail, Marketing and PR manager for Great Northern.
Located in the downtown area, the brewery which has grown from about 1,300 barrels in 2011 to nearly 7,000 in 2016 is constantly developing its community involvement because Bates said they believe it’s imperative to give back to not only the locals but also the tourists who give support, even from thousands of miles away.
“Connecting with community members and being able to provide opportunities to better our town and experiences here is very important to [us] and we love every second of it,” she said.
A few ways Bates said that the brewery makes local connections include:
Bates said the brewery promotes events via a website calendar, social media pages including Instagram and Facebook as well as with promotional materials such as posters and handbills.
They cross-promote as much as possible with whomever might be involved in the event such as sponsors, organizers, attendees and such.
Smaller events, like a bi-monthly Firkin tapping, is shared with regulars and locals via word of mouth and text alert options.
“Once the logistics are confirmed and the event is solidified, it’s just a matter of sharing with our audience, who are engaged and generally excited about brewery events and events we choose to sponsor,” Bates said.
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