The annual series of events, themed this year as "Deep Roots and Cold Pours," is organized by the Maine Brewers’ Guild and showcases Maine beer and the hospitality industry that supports it.
“Clearly, we do not need additional unpredictability,” Patrick Woodcock, president and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, told Mainebiz hours after the federal government shut down over a budget dispute.
The head of the Maine Brewers' Guild warns that the ever-changing trade landscape is "creating a climate of chaos," while the Maine State Chamber of Commerce chief is worried about the "double-punch" of tariffs and a weakening U.S. labor market.
“In many cases Maine’s breweries have already seen costs rise as a result of the ongoing tariff negotiations,” Sarah Bryan, head of the Maine Brewers' Guild, told Mainebiz.
Repeating a move from his first term, President Trump on Monday signed two proclamations imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from all countries.
Kelly Dorsey, founder and director of Mast Landing Brewing Co., told Mainebiz that the company has been brainstorming innovative ways to bring in customers.
With the threat of looming trade wars, Maine manufacturers — even ones with diversified supply chains — know it won't be business as usual over the next four years.