A record 11,500 packed the Craft Brewers Conference in Portland, Oregon for another hugely successful annual gathering of the craft brewing tribe.
Although it is no longer a surprise to break registration numbers from previous years, and no longer an unusual sight to see vendors and attendees from around the world, it is still a shock to longtime industry veterans to witness such an enormous industry crowd gathered in one place at one time for craft beer. The Portland Convention Center did not have adequate space to host both the opening reception or the Opening Remarks and Keynote address. Long winding lines of brewers and allied trade made their way over to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, former home of the Portland Trail Blazers and the where the likes of Elvis, the Beatles and of course the Grateful Dead played.
The trade show floor also brought in a record 600 exhibitors.
2015 Achievement Awards
Three members of the brewing community were recognized and awarded for their dedication and service during the opening session:
Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Brewing: Steve Dresler, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Brewers Association Recognition Award: Dave & Diane Alexander, Brickskeller, Washington, D.C.
F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award: Brook Bristow, South Carolina Brewers Guild
The 2016 CBC will be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3-6, in conjunction with the 2016 World Beer Cup.