Low-ABV Beer: Making & Marketing Craft Beer’s Biggest Opportunity

Craft Brewers Conference 2026
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Speakers: Aaron Hyde

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Are you having trouble reaching the growing younger consumer segment that craves flavor, quality, and moderation? How about targeting the aging Millennials and Gen X drinkers you’ve lost over the years?

This session, sponsored by RahrBSG, explores why low-ABV (or Mid-Strength) beers, those below 4% ABV, aren’t just a trend; it is a segment within beer with significant opportunities for growth. It covers brewing techniques, consumer insights, and product positioning to help you craft beers that hit the sweet spot for today’s mindful drinker.

Presentation Audio:

About the Speaker

Aaron Hyde

Aaron Hyde, Director of Product Portfolio

RahrBSG

Aaron Hyde began homebrewing in 1996 with his dad in the kitchen. As the owner and operator of Brewstock Homebrew Supply in New Orleans, he sold home fermentation products, helping many get their start in the hobby and in the craft brewing industry. Though he sold the shop in 2013, Brewstock continues on today. Aaron then moved on to work for Briess Malt & Ingredients, where he served as a sales director, selling to homebrew stores, as well as craft breweries and distilleries. He then moved to Auckland, New Zealand, to lead sales and global product strategy for Bevie and its brands, including Grainfather, Mangrove Jacks, Still Spirits, and Mad Millie. In 2021, he authored How to Distill for the hobby distiller. He manages the website www.howtodistill.com, which provides supplementary distilling information. He is currently the Senior Director of Product Portfolio at RahrBSG and is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Judge Certification Program Judge, and has Institute of Brewers and Distilling certifications in distilling, malting, and brewing.

This seminar was sponsored by:

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