Thinking about going pro in Europe at 41 – market is rough, but is it shifting? Would love some perspective.
I’ve been brewing for 11 years, most of it on a 200L system with sometimes 3 batches in a day, and I’ve somehow ended up in a position where I have a nearly complete 500L brewhouse and a space that’s close to being ready to go. Currently I am producig about 1000l per month, mostly for friends parties, birthdays, private caves etc.
I’m based in Europe, and I’m well aware the craft beer market has been under real pressure. I hear that the doom and gloom is everywhere. But I aam wondering if things might be slowly shifting again, at least in some markets.
What I don’t have is deep pockets. This would be bootstrapped, lean from day one.
I’m 41, which feels late and maybe the right age to do something like this with eyes open rather than pure enthusiasm.
So I’m curious what is your take on this? Please elaborate a bit more if you think it is a recipe for a life disaster or just give me your valuable insight, thoughts, tips, general opinion. Is this still a terrible time to start, or are you seeing any green shoots? What would you do differently if you were starting now with equipment but limited capital?
Not looking for validation, genuinely want honest takes.