Local brewery expands production to include a wider range of small brand beers.
Yards Brewing Co., a notable establishment in the Philadelphia craft beer scene, is set to bolster its production capabilities following a new collaborative partnership with two other breweries: Bald Birds Brewing Co. from Pennsylvania, and Two Roads Brewing Company from Connecticut. This partnership, known as B3 Beverage Co., aims to enhance Yards’ existing contract-brewing operations, which have been ongoing since the company relocated to its expansive facility on Spring Garden Street in 2018.
Currently, Yards Brewing Co. produces approximately 25,000 barrels of its own beer annually while also fulfilling contract obligations for other brands, amounting to an additional 30,000 barrels. Among its clients are several recognizable names in the craft beer industry, including Evil Genius Beer Co. based in Fishtown and Cape May Brewing Co., a popular choice among both locals and visitors.
In the initial year of the B3 Beverage Co. collaboration, Yards plans to increase its contract-brewing output by around 10%. With this expansion, the company anticipates not only enhancing its existing portfolio but also entering new market segments, including ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages alongside the traditional offerings of beer, cider, and seltzer. This strategic move signifies a notable shift in Yards’ operational approach, as it looks to diversify its product lineup and engage with evolving consumer trends.
The partnership emerged from discussions between Yards’ founder and president, Tom Kehoe, and Joe Feerrar, co-owner of Bald Birds Brewing Co., who first connected several years ago. Their renewed dialogue last year focused on growth potential and industry dynamics, leading to the innovative decision to join forces rather than compete.
Additionally, Two Roads Brewing expressed interest in expanding its co-packing ventures, further cementing the rationale behind the formation of B3 Beverage Co. According to Kehoe, positioning the collaboration as a “super” beverage company allows for shared resources and expertise, ultimately benefiting all partners involved.
For beer enthusiasts in the Philadelphia area, the partnership is not expected to disrupt the local market significantly. Kehoe reassures consumers that Yards will maintain its commitment to quality, ensuring that what patrons have come to enjoy from their favorite brands will remain intact.
In summary, Yards Brewing Co.’s new alliance with Bald Birds and Two Roads heralds a promising chapter in the craft beverage industry, reflecting a trend toward collaboration and innovation in an increasingly competitive market. As these breweries unite, they aim to leverage their collective strengths and capacities to deliver a diverse array of quality beverages, ultimately enriching the craft beer landscape.
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