Craft Beverage Expo (CBExpo) will return for its fourth annual conference in Portland, OR Nov. 7-9, 2017 at the DoubleTree by Hilton. It’s the first time the conference will be held outside of Northern California.
Each year, CBExpo attracts professionals from across the craft beer, wine, cider, mead and spirits market for three days of ducation sessions and presentations from hand-chosen experts. CBExpo also offers networking opportunities, bringing together artisan beverage masters from all segments to connect and collaborate.
In addition to a full education program, CBExpo features an expo floor with exhibitors showcasing products and services to the rapidly expanding craft beverage marketplace.
“We’re excited to move CBExpo to November and to a new, vibrant city,” says Kellie Shevlin, executive director of Craft Beverage Expo. “Because Portland truly exudes the craft culture, it’s a natural setting for CBExpo and our unique combination of the boutique wine, beer, cider, spirits and mead segments.”
Oregon has a rich history in craft beverage production, dating back to the mid-1800s. Because of its climate, Oregonians have an abundance of quality local agriculture giving brewers, wine makers and distillers access to a wide array of fresh ingredients, including wheat, cherries, pears and berries. A strong buy-local ethos and state regulatory architecture that allows small producers to compete equally with international conglomerates adds to the craft culture. Oregon has 702 wineries, more than 50 distilleries and the Portland metro area, alone, enjoys 105 craft breweries.
Registration will open in the beginning of March. Prospective speakers can begin submitting their presentations for consideration on January 18; the deadline for receipt is March 3.