LONGMONT, CO – The trailblazer of the canned craft beer revolution, Oskar Blues Brewery has continued its growth pattern posting a 60 percent increase in
shipments in January 2011 vs. January 2010.
While 2010 proved to be one of the most challenging years for the beer category in recent memory, craft beer appears to be the exception to the rule. Craft beer was the only segment to increase its case and dollar sales by double-digit percent increases while canned craft beer made a significant splash for the first time since Oskar Blues started the trend eight years ago. Since 2007, canned craft beer sales have grown six-fold, and the number of craft brewers canning beer has eclipsed 100.
In 2010 Oskar Blues demand exceeded supply at times. To trump demand in what looks to be a stellar 2011 the brewery’s immediate focus is furthering its infrastructure while brewing more consistent quality beer than ever before. Two weeks ago, the brewery installed a 200 BBL fermenter and a 200 BBL bright tank in the first of three capacity increases scheduled for early this year. Oskar Blues also has four more 200 BBL fermenters scheduled for arrival over the next two months in addition to installing a new keg line and Hi-Cone six-packing machine.
The continued investments in quality control, infrastructure and people have positioned the funky brewery for another explosive year for craft canned brews led by the original; Dale’s Pale Ale.
Set in the heart of Colorado craft beer country, Oskar Blues Brewery in Lyons began canning its beers in November of 2002 with a hand-canning line in the 60- year-old barn next door to their funky little brewpub. Although it’s now a fullthrottle canning operation that is quickly expanding its cult-like following across the nation, Oskar Blues remains true to its original mission of simply blowing minds with what can come out of a can of beer.