Mark Ruedrich, a true pioneer of the brewing industry who co-founded North Coast Brewing Co. in Fort Bragg, CA in 1988 has announced his retirement.
As the craft brewing industry peers into its fourth decade, a number of long-standing industry pioneers are moving into retirement. This is a trend we can expect to much more of in the coming years as the “first generation” of brewery founders enter retirement age.
As a trained biologist, Ruedrich had a keen focus on quality control and an easy grasp of the scientific complexity of brewing, unusual for the early-era brewers. North Coast became well known for its popular Red Seal Ale, but have since developed a wide array of innovative and unique styles in a variety of packaging formats over the years.
The company appointed two long-time employees to lead the company. Current Chief Operating Officer, Sam Kraynek was named CEO and Sheila Martins was appointed to vice president.
The full press release is here.