thanks and 1 more question

[BrianZbrew]

I have to thank all those who responded to my previous post and to the forum in general. I think that this is a great way to learn. I had a beautiful business plan written and was in the process of funding it but on looking at it realized that I wanted something else, a small neighborhood brewery producing special beers using herbs and fruits. I have made these regularly and have had positive responses. It still is "new" aso I do not want to bet the farm on it yet but want to make a living too. I have almost completed the revised plan and was looking at the availability of small equipment like a 1 or 2 bbl system. They don't seem to be out there. What is the smallest system you would recommend? And is there any companies that would build this system or have detailed designs of it? Thanks, Have a great day!

Brian

[BreweRepublic]

Nothing intrinsically wrong with your niche, but in my opinion, you really need to consider your profitability with a tiny system as you suggest. There is a break-even and ultimately profitable size determined by your projected sales, COG's, cost of energy (a real bugger these days), overhead and your labor, etc. Even if this is part of a larger business, i.e. farm stand I would think 5 bbl. is a minimum. Do what you want, but economy of scale is an important consideration. Good luck.

scott@brewerepublic.com

[Moonlight]

In this scenario, what would be your hourly wage? Will you need to buy groceries or are you independently wealthy?

[Bazooka]

business plans will do your shredder the most good! in this economy!!!
ALWAYS better to have more capacity than you need - just look at all the request for contract brewing- which is a great thing!!!!be ready for sucess-

[beauxman]

I have to agree, plan for success. It cost almost as much to install a 3 bbl brewery as it would a 10 bbl brewery. Many threads here have addressed your scenario over the years. Take a look and search the boards but if the brewery is the main revenue stream, economy of scale must be considered.
-Beaux