The Beer Institute awarded Eric Shepard and Bill Hackett with the 2021 Jeff Becker Beer Industry Service Award.
Eric was acknowledged for his dedication to providing thorough, accurate, and timely information both to and about America’s Beer Industry. After 44 years of reporting on the nation’s beer industry at Beer Marketer’s INSIGHTS, Eric retired last month as the publication’s vice president and executive editor.
“Eric’s high standards and shrewd insights set the standard for journalistic excellence, and the American beer industry is better for it,” said Jim McGreevy, president and CEO of the Beer Institute. “Eric loves beer and the beer industry, and I will always admire his ability to draw out the most relevant points from economic data, policy discussions, and legal briefs to both keep us informed and provide meaningful context and analysis.”
Bill, former executive vice president and chairman at Constellation Brands Beer Division, was given the award for his leadership and dedication to the beer industry and America’s beer drinkers.
“Bill is one of the cornerstones of the American beer industry. His vision, creativity, and commitment to building beer occasions are key reasons why our nation’s brewers and beer importers are thriving today,” said Jim McGreevy, president and CEO of the Beer Institute. “After a lifetime of dedication and service, I hope Bill finds his beach, knowing that he left the beer industry stronger than how he found it.”