New Trail Brewing Brings Wholesaler Partners Together for 2026 Summit

Williamsport, PA — New Trail Brewing welcomed its wholesaler partners to Williamsport on August 13 for the brewery’s 2026 Wholesaler Summit, bringing together members of its distribution network to celebrate accomplishments, discuss continued growth, and look ahead to the company’s vision for 2027.

The summit began with a presentation at Lycoming College, where New Trail leadership shared updates on sales, brand growth, accomplishments, and the brewery’s mission and vision for the future. Wholesalers were then welcomed back to the brewery for tours, tastings, and an inside look at the people, products, and innovation driving New Trail forward.

The summit comes during a challenging period for the craft beer industry, with many breweries experiencing declining demand and limited category growth. Brewbound’s 2025 Craft Brewery of the Year, however, continues to move in the opposite direction, growing its brands, expanding its reach, and finding new ways to keep New Trail beer exciting for consumers. In its 99-month-long history, New Trail still hasn’t posted a down month year-over-year.

A key focus of the summit was New Trail’s commitment to giving back to the communities that support the brewery. To date, New Trail has contributed more than $1 million to charitable organizations and community initiatives. Those efforts include conservation projects that help protect local trails, waterways, and outdoor spaces; sponsorship of local nonprofit events and fundraisers; support for teachers and first responders; and contributions to local food banks and hunger-relief efforts.

“Our community has always been an important part of who we are,” said Paul Gephart, President of New Trail Brewing Co. “Giving back is not something separate from our business—it is part of how we build lasting relationships and strengthen the communities we call home.”

The brewery also reinforced its mission: To provide thoughtfully crafted and easily accessible beer that fits every lifestyle—from mountain peaks to back porches—through strong partnerships and authentic community connection.

The summit provided an opportunity to realign and put that mission into focus by bringing New Trail’s team and wholesaler partners together around shared goals for the year ahead.

Adding to the day’s focus on teamwork and motivation, Penn State Men’s Hockey Head Coach Guy Gadowsky joined the summit to deliver a game-day-inspired motivational speech to New Trail’s wholesaler partners. Drawing on his experience in collegiate athletics, Gadowsky challenged the group to approach the year ahead as one team, emphasizing the importance of preparation, accountability, and working together toward a common goal.

The summit also offered a preview of what is ahead for New Trail in 2027. Summit attendees had the opportunity to sample some of next year’s focuses. From new ways to enjoy Broken Heels, New Trail lagers, and fresh variety packs, New Trail’s 2027 plans are designed to continue creating excitement for craft brewing while giving consumers more opportunities to find a beer for every adventure.

Watermelon Double Broken Heels will be available January 2027, bringing another fruit-forward innovation to New Trail’s largest brand family in 19.2oz single serves. The 9.5% Hazy Double IPA will also have a supporting placement in a New Trail Hoppy Variety Pack spring 2027.

The other large focus inside the Broken Heels family will be Broken Heels Light. As demand begins to rise for a high quality craft product in between non-alcoholic and full strength, New Trail enters the discussion. Consumers will be able to find the Broken Heels brand they love and trust in a brand new 3.7% and 95-calorie package spring 2027.

The 2026 Wholesaler Summit reflects New Trail Brewing’s continued investment in its people, partnerships, community, and future. As the brewery continues to grow in a changing craft beer landscape, New Trail remains focused on innovation, quality, accessibility, and the partnerships that help carry its brands forward.

About New Trail Brewing

New Trail Brewing is an independent craft brewery based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, known for its award-winning beers and commitment to adventure, innovation, and community. Founded in 2018 with a passion for quality craftsmanship and outdoor-inspired culture, New Trail has built a loyal following across the Northeast and continues to expand its reach through exceptional beer, authentic brand experiences, and lasting community partnerships.