Every NBWA Annual Convention includes a changing of the guard, i.e. the switchover of a new org chair who will help lead the trade group’s efforts in the year ahead. 

The latest chair, Dahlheimer Beverage president Luke Dahlheimer – who officially stepped into the role Tuesday – is particularly poised to tackle one of the most anticipated issues of 2026 and 2027: the future of hemp beverages. 

Dahlheimer’s home state of MN has been ground zero for the segment and a model for state regulations. He’s set to help NBWA members navigate the unknown, and will be able to speak to the significant economic impact hemp has had in MN.

Check out highlights from his 1st speech as chair

As breweries and bev-alc companies plan for 2027 and beyond, the decisions in front of them keep getting harder: where to invest resources as drinkers move between beer, spirits, RTDs and NA options, how to hold onto distribution as that sector contracts and how to win back on-premise traffic.

Brewbound Live puts those decisions on the table. On December 9-10 in L.A., brewers, entrepreneurs, distributors, retailers and investors will compare notes on what’s working, pressure-test their plans for the year ahead and meet the partners who can help carry them out.

Early registration pricing ends Friday, Oct. 23. Register by the deadline to save $100 per ticket.

Check out our speaker lineup & learn more

Nashville’s TailGate Brewing has acquired the campus and facility of Yazoo Brewing in Madison, and will convert the 6.5 acre complex into TailGate’s primary production hub.

Dive into the details

Craving more? 👉 See what Insider members get access to.

Want to share news or tips? ✉️ Submit a press release or reach out to news@brewbound.com.

Interested in other beverage coverage? 👀 Check out the BevNET Daily Briefing covering the broader beverage industry, including energy drinks, cannabis and other non-alcoholic beverages. Want to stick to the hard stuff? Subscribe to our Spirits Newsletter (published every 2 weeks). 

We'll be back in your inbox tomorrow.