Governor Hochul Announce Nominations Open for New York State Craf...
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of nominations for the New York State Craft Beverage Retailer Awards, designed to recognize merchants who help customers discover and enjoy craft beverages made in New York with locally grown ingredients. Awardees will receive a "New York State Retailer Award" to display at their businesses, online and in their marketing materials, recognizing their creativity and excellence in showcasing New York craft beverages. Nominations are being accepted through Friday, November 20 and are available online here.
“New York’s craft beverage industry is a point of pride for our state, bringing together hardworking farmers, innovative producers and small businesses that help drive our economy,” Governor Hochul said. “From neighborhood wine shops to local markets, retailers play an essential role in getting New York-made products into the hands of consumers. These awards will recognize the businesses going above and beyond to champion our homegrown producers, support local jobs and showcase the very best of what New York has to offer.”
Industry partner organizations and advocacy associations can nominate retailers for the awards. Empire State Development and the Department of Agriculture and Markets will receive, review and score applications. Retailers that score the highest will be referred to the State Liquor Authority to confirm they are in good standing, with the resulting nominations submitted to the Governor for selection. Up to three winners will be selected in each of the following categories: New York State Beer Retailer; New York State Wine Retailer; New York State Mead Retailer; New York State Liquor Retailer; and New York State Cider Retailer.
To be eligible for an award, a business must be based in New York State; licensed to sell beer, wine, mead, liquor and/or hard cider; in business for at least two years; demonstrate exceptional efforts to promote beverages made with New York State agricultural products; and in compliance with all SLA laws and regulations.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Growing New York’s craft beverage industry means ensuring our producers can reach new customers and markets. Retailers are critical to that effort, helping businesses expand their reach, build brand recognition and turn locally made products into lasting opportunities. Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York is strengthening these connections to help more producers succeed and further support the industry’s contributions to our state’s economy.”
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “New York's craft beverage industry boasts some of the finest local, unique, delicious products found anywhere in the world. Our retailers are a critical part of getting those beverages on the tables of more consumers, ultimately benefitting our agricultural sector and regional economies. I thank Governor Hochul and our partners for their continued efforts to connect the dots between our producers, retailers and consumers, and look forward to celebrating the winners of the Craft Beverage Retailer Awards.”
New York State Liquor Authority Chair Lily M. Fan said, “New York is an industry leader in craft beverages, with more than 1,000 licensed craft beverage producers across the state. We’re grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul for supporting businesses that attract customers with NY grown ingredients while strengthening local economies and boosting hospitality. I look forward to celebrating the award recipients for their achievements.”
State Senator Rachel May said, “Central New York is home to some of the state's finest craft beverage makers, and there’s more to them than picking up a six-pack from the store. They welcome customers for a full experience, offering the chance to learn how each beverage is made and enjoy a tasting with friends. Thank you to Governor Hochul for spotlighting these small businesses and recognizing the hard work and care that go into connecting consumers with these beverages.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “These awards will highlight the best of New York’s craft beverage industry, helping to promote our state’s small businesses and educate New Yorkers about high quality, locally made products. This is especially important as New York consumers are now able to purchase direct-to-consumer shipments of New York-manufactured craft beverages.”
More information on the New York State Craft Beverage Retailer Awards, including application and program guidelines, are available online here. Self-nomination is not permitted, and only organizations outlined in the requirements may recommend retailers. Eligible applicants are authorized to nominate up to three businesses, in up to two categories.
New York's breweries, wineries, meaderies, distilleries and cideries are vital economic engines, generating billions in annual economic activity, preserving thousands of acres of farmland and supporting more than 20,000 jobs statewide. By giving these products a place on their shelves and menus, retailers support New York’s farmers, contribute to regional economies, and help the State’s craft beverage industry grow.
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