In times of crisis, history has shown that industries can pivot to meet urgent needs. During World War II, the Ford Motor Co. shifted its production to build bombers. Today, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, distilleries are stepping up to produce essential hand sanitizer. Local breweries like Griffin Claw in Birmingham have joined this effort by utilizing their facilities to create germ-killing spray from alcohol byproducts of their brewing process.
Griffin Claw Brewing Company, known for its craft beer, has adapted its operations to produce hand sanitizer in response to the soaring demand. Director of sales, Kyle VanDeventer, explained the process of transforming high-proof alcohol byproducts into effective hand sanitizer. The brewery initially offered the sanitizer to customers but has since expanded donations to organizations like Gleaners Community Food Bank and first responders.
Atwater Brewery, another local establishment, is also gearing up to manufacture hand sanitizer, ensuring compliance with FDA guidelines and regulations. Owner Mark Rieth highlighted the challenges of navigating the legalities of distributing alcohol-based sanitizers for free, emphasizing the need to cover costs while aiding the community.
As the brewing industry adapts to produce essential sanitizing products, businesses like Atwater Brewery are adjusting their business models to offer curbside pickup and delivery services. The shift away from on-premise consumption due to social distancing measures has impacted their revenue streams, prompting a need for innovative solutions to sustain operations.
Amidst these changes, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer commended the distilleries for their contribution to public health by repurposing their facilities for hand sanitizer production. Regulatory relaxations have enabled distillers to manufacture denatured alcohol for sanitizing purposes, reflecting a collaborative effort between industry and government to address the current crisis.
Looking ahead, the brewing industry’s responsiveness to community needs underscores its resilience and adaptability in times of adversity. By leveraging their resources and expertise to produce essential supplies, breweries are not only supporting public health efforts but also demonstrating the power of collective action in combating unforeseen challenges.
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