As the craft beer industry continues to go from strength to strength, brewers will need to think of innovative ways to attract and retain customers, so they don't deflect to their rivals. Since many craft brewery businesses are small and independent, becoming marketing savvy is especially crucial to stay ahead of the bigger boys, and make a name for yourself in this competitive sector. Here are eight marketing tips that will help put your craft brewery firmly on the map.

1. Host an event

Hosting regular events is an effective way to get customers in the door at your craft brewery, helping to increase awareness of your brand and boost your profits. Event nights could include promoting a particular type of beer, offering food or special menus, or collaborating with local musicians or other forms of entertainment. Raise awareness of events through social media, as well as contacting printers for flyers and posters that can be distributed locally.

2. Beer mat business cards

Business cards are useful for distributing to potential customers and suppliers if you visit any trade fairs or events and want to promote your brand, but allow your business card to stand out from the crowd so it gets noticed. When you order business cards online, consider using design and printing suppliers who can work with you to create something novel and eye-catching, such as business cards that look like beer mats.

3. Get involved with community events

Since many craft breweries are small, local, independent businesses, it makes sense to have a presence in the heart of the community. When local events take place, such as fundraising initiatives, summer fairs or other activities, make sure your brewery gets involved. Contact a reputable design and print company to get some promotional flyers organised.

4. Loyalty cards

Keeping customers hooked on your brand is important, so provide them with an incentive to come back to your craft brewery. Work with a quality production print company to produce durable loyalty cards, which can be stamped after a visit or a purchase of a particular type of beer, with discounts or incentives after so many purchases.

5. Design a unique logo

What makes you different from other craft breweries? Identify your unique selling points and make sure these come across in all of your marketing materials. If you haven't got one already, consult with logo printing companies who can design an original, attention-grabbing logo that can be used on all your printed and online communications.

6. Outside signage

If your craft brewery is located on a busy high street or gets a lot of passers-by, entice them inside by getting sign and display or A-boards printed to advertise weekly specials or other events and promotions.

7. Social media

Step up your presence online by creating social media accounts so that audiences can spread the word about your craft brewery. It's a great way to find out who your target groups are, what they think of your brand as well as communicating with them.

8. Create a newsletter

Keep your brewery in the minds of customers by offering them frequent updates on what you have to offer, industry news as well as other insights that are relevant and interesting. An online or printed newsletter is the perfect solution to achieve this.

For high-quality, custom printing services to market your craft brewery, you're in expert hands at Wee Print. Call today.