Black-owned breweries unite to break down barriers in beer

Full Circle Brewing Co has merged with Crowns & Hops Brewing Co in an alliance that will assist in better Black representation in beer.

The new business, named the Circle of Crowns Beverage Group (CCBG), combines Full Circle Brewing Co, based in Fresno, California — known as the largest Black-owned production brewery in the US — with Inglewood, California’s Crowns & Hops Brewing Co.

The creation of CCBG will, according to reports, assist in tackling the systemic challenges that Black-owned businesses face in the sector and signal a new era in the craft beer industry.

The CCBG alliance aims to streamline operations, focusing on production, sales, and marketing and, by pooling their strengths, the breweries are geared up to make their brands more accessible to consumers and retailers worldwide.

Speaking about the merger, Full Circle Brewing CEO and founder Arthur Moye said: “This strategic alliance leverages the strength of our infrastructures and distributor networks to bring our unique brands to retail shelves around the world. Together we are better positioned to maximize growth and bring more consumers craft beverages with an aspirational, relevant connection to black culture.”

Crowns & Hops co-founder, COO, and head of brewing operations Teo Hunter explained: “We can each apply our No Big Deal skills, those areas where we naturally excel based on our previous knowledge and experiences. Arthur at Full Circle is amazing with production, scaling, and the financial side of the business, while Beny and I are experts in branding, marketing, community, and partnerships.”

Crowns & Hops CEO and co-founder. Beny Ashburn added: “Crowns & Hops and Full Circle share the same visions, values, and strategies. Our collective mission extends beyond production, marketing, and sales; we aim to be a supportive resource for other Black-owned craft beer brands, fostering community and growth within the industry.”

Each of the businesses have repeatedly encountered barriers in accessing production facilities, distribution networks, and retail partnerships. However, it has been alleged that through the CCBG the new alliance will help to dismantle these barriers and create a platform that promotes equity and inclusivity within the industry.

As such Black Business outlined how the CCBG represented “more than a merger” and “symbolises progress toward a more inclusive and supportive craft beverage industry” setting “a precedent for collaboration and empowerment within the brewing community”.