The 2023 Craft Beverage Expo is being held in Pittsburgh for the first time and will feature a weeklong festival of events throughout Allegheny County, March 27-April 2, 2023.

For small-batch brands, the Craft Beverage Expo provides attendees with access to an exciting lineup of industry experts. Educational classes teach how to create a strong brand from professionals in the industry. Last year, CBX was held in Louisville and was a tremendous success. The organizer chose Pittsburgh for its 2023 conference due to the area’s fast-growing craft beverage scene.

“Our region has been fighting for craft beverage since 1794, dating back to the infamous Whiskey Rebellion,” said Jerad Bachar, President & CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH, in a news release. “In contemporary times, our craft beverage scene has continued to build in scope, reach, and momentum, making Pittsburgh the perfect destination for a major expo like CBX.”

Local brewers and distillers are encouraged to come and learn from industry experts, network with their peers, and discover new ways to grow their businesses. Sessions cover topics that include: empowering women in the industry, navigating markets, consumer experience insights, financing, inclusivity, modern sales strategies, sustainable packaging and more.

“Those looking for new ways to streamline production will be able to speak with companies that offer turnkey solutions,” said Kellie Shevlin, Executive Director of Craft Beverage Expo, and Distribution. “There are so many companies out there that cater specifically to independent producers and they would love your business.”

“You can learn about new technology that will help you source fresh ingredients, manage labels and shipping, and optimize your finances,” added Shevlin. “Whether you operate as an on-premise, off-premise, or third-party organization, the expo is a great way to discover new turn-key solutions for branding, packaging, creative distribution, retail marketing, and other areas that are specific to production and distribution of craft beverages.” 

CBX 2023 highlights every element of craft beverage making, including beer, wine, spirits, cider, sake, mead and more. CBX is a country-wide celebration, offering education and experiences exploring the craft beverage ecosystem through the Craft Beverage Expo, Craft Beverage Excellence, and Craft Beverage Experience.

The Craft Beverage Expo will kick off with the industry/tradeshow component, Craft Beverage Expo, taking place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center March 30-31. The Expo focuses on independent beverages and the issues that producers face, from finding the right technology and equipment for their operations to getting their beverages onto stores’ shelves. The tradeshow features vendors looking to partner with craft beverage makers, and the conference features industry-leading speakers discussing topics that range from financing to packaging to distribution.

CBX Experience is a consumer-tasting event inviting small-batch vendors from across Allegheny County to showcase their products to industry partners and the general public. The 2023 inaugural event will take place on March 31, and a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase.

Ongoing throughout CBX, CBX Excellence will engage and activate Allegheny County businesses from hotels, restaurants, culture, and other attractions throughout the region to participate in CBX by offering specials, discounts, events, and more.

For more information, visit craftbeverageexpo.com.