Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Pilato, Owner of Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, located in Loveland, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Grimm Brothers Brewery is an award-winning microbrewery located in Loveland, Colorado. We are born from a passion for beer and a love for history. Specializing in hand-crafted German styles, incorporating historical recipes. I also love to infuse modern beer style trends, including new twists on traditional styles.
Tell us about yourself
Grimm Brothers Brewhouse was founded in 2010 by Don Chapman and Aaron Heaton. I started working for the company in 2015, My Husband and I joined the partnership in 2018, and I am currently Head Brewer. My motivation is my passion for the craft, my wonderful employees, and our loyal customers, that always put a smile on my face.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am very proud of the awards that we have received over the years, nine medals at the Great American beer festival and 2 World Beer Cup awards. I am appreciative of how much we have grown over the past 12 years; our production site has grown from two small 10BBL fermenters to 10 x 30 BBL Fermenters and two 30 BBL conditioning tanks while also expanding our packaging line. Our Taproom space also has grown to include a kitchen, so our guests can enjoy some tasty eats while they enjoy their cold craft beer. I am also proud of my employees; we have a group of loyal, hard-working folks that we could not do all this without.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The pandemic has defiantly been a huge challenge; it has been a roller coaster ride. Supply chain issues have been immensely difficult.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be adaptable; the market is always changing, and having a flexible attitude will go a long way.
- Creativity & constantly innovating bring in other creative minds to have different perspectives.
- Be prepared to work hard and push through difficult challenges.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
“Nothing ever tasted better than a cold beer on a beautiful afternoon with nothing to look forward to than more of the same.” - Hugh Hood – Essayist, professor
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://grimmbrosbrewhouse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grimmbrosbrew/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grimmbrosbrew/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/grimmbrosbrew
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-pilato-15ab04a1/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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