Brewgooder, a Scottish brewery founded in 2016 by Alan Mahon, has set a remarkable precedent in the craft beer industry. Its overarching mission is to leverage the brewing process to foster social good, specifically through initiatives aimed at improving access to clean water and supporting farming communities. Utilizing the platform of beer, Mahon envisions a world where social responsibility and entrepreneurship converge, creating positive ripple effects across various communities.
A Foundation with a Vision
The Brewgooder Foundation has made substantial impacts, reportedly benefiting over 150,000 individuals globally, particularly through clean water initiatives. This goal to intertwine business with philanthropy is not merely an afterthought for Brewgooder; it is embedded in their operational ethos. The brewery’s commitment was recognized in 2018, when it became the first Scottish brewery to achieve B-Corp certification, highlighting their efforts to meet rigorous social and environmental standards. This certification underlines Brewgooder’s authentic commitment to creating a sustainable business model while impacting global communities positively.
In a bold step forward, Brewgooder has ventured into the realm of fair trade sourcing with its Fonio Session IPA, the first in the brewery to incorporate fonio, an ancient grain native to Africa. Initially brewed in partnership with Brooklyn Brewery, Brewgooder is making this groundbreaking beer a permanent feature of its lineup. The decision to include fonio—a grain that holds potential as a superfood—reflects Brewgooder’s dedication to innovation while celebrating culinary history.
Fonio not only introduces unique flavors to the brewing process, such as notes of candied oranges and cherries, but also serves as the cornerstone of a new supply chain aimed at elevating the livelihoods of the farmers involved. By collaborating with organizations like Fairtrade Africa and FLOCERT, Brewgooder has established direct partnerships with a cooperative of farmers in Guinea. This initiative seeks to enhance production, potentially increasing fonio yield up to tenfold, while positively affecting the surrounding communities economically.
One of Brewgooder’s notable achievements is the creation of a supply chain that not only sustains its production needs but also empowers local farmers. Working with expert institutions like Terra Ingredients and Michigan State University, Brewgooder is committed to developing robust seed systems that improve quality and output. This focus on gender inclusivity within the farming cooperative ensures that all community members benefit from the advancements made through this partnership.
By intentionally overbuilding the fonio supply chain, Brewgooder is establishing a framework that allows other breweries and food manufacturers access to this valuable grain. The idea behind this strategic approach is to generate widespread interest in fonio, potentially encouraging more brewers to experiment with it in their recipes. Mahon expresses a hope that as awareness grows, more breweries will innovate by incorporating fonio into their beverages, thus fostering a broader movement toward sustainable and ethical brewing practices.
The Bigger Picture: Environmental Responsibility and Community Impact
Mahon’s vision does not stop at his brewery. He aims to inspire a collective movement among other breweries that could result in a more profound understanding of fonio and its benefits. The World Wildlife Fund has designated fonio as one of its Future 50 Foods, a title that emphasizes its potential to contribute positively to health and nutrition in the face of environmental challenges.
In essence, Brewgooder is setting a new standard in the brewing industry. By integrating social enterprise principles, philanthropic initiatives, and innovative production practices, Brewgooder demonstrates that it is possible to operate a successful business while simultaneously lifting up communities and promoting environmental sustainability. This model could serve as a template for various industries aspiring to balance profit with purpose, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs who wish to lead with integrity and vision.
As Brewgooder continues to grow and innovate, it will undoubtedly face both opportunities and challenges. However, with its foundational commitment to social good and its pioneering spirit, it stands poised to make a lasting impact not just in the brewing world but across global agriculture and community development efforts.