Cooperatively Run Since 2024
In the winter of 2024, Brewstock Homebrew Supplies—New Orleans’ oldest and longest-running homebrew supply store—announced its impending closure. Local homebrewers despaired at the prospect of losing not just a store, but a vital hub for their hobby. For years, Brewstock had served as the epicenter of domestic craft fermentation in the Gulf South, regularly hosting judging sessions for local competitions, producing its own homebrew festival, and offering educational classes. With no other shop in the area, hobbyists faced high shipping costs, limited access to ingredients, and the loss of expert guidance.
That was too much for Daniel Bryde and Greg Johnson to accept. Both were board members of Big Easy Homebrewers, and they rallied their club and the larger brewing community to buy the shop and run it as a cooperative—by homebrewers, for homebrewers. By the end of the year, the newly formed Brewstock Cooperative had the keys to the store and has been running strong ever since
What is a consumer cooperative?
A consumer cooperative is a business owned and operated by its members, who are also its customers.
Why should I join the cooperative?
You should join because you want to ensure that New Orleans will always have a dedicated homebrew supplier. Craft beer trends come and go, but experienced brewers know that the hobby itself endures. Even if people say craft beer is dying, if you brew a Belgian Tripel today and bottle-condition it, by the time it’s ready to drink, craft beer might be booming again.
How much does membership cost?
A membership stake in the Brewstock Cooperative is $1,000. Payments can be made all at once or spread over three months, whichever works best for you. Membership benefits do not take effect until payment is complete.
What are the benefits of cooperative membership?
All members receive a 15% discount on all products at the store. If you choose to volunteer, you’ll also receive a 30% discount on ingredients (grain, hops, yeast, flavorings, etc.).
As a member, you’ll have a vote in major decisions and help shape the store’s future. Members may also receive a share of any profits at the end of the year, when financially viable.
And most importantly, the cooperative model ensures Brewstock stays in the hands of homebrewers and continues to support the hobby long into the future.
Who is eligible to become a member?
Membership is open to any individual who is a resident of Louisiana. Business memberships are not available at this time. Louisiana residency is required to comply with federal securities law. Memberships are not transferable.
Membership is governed by a robust operating agreement that also serves as our binding contract. It’s available for review if you wish.
How many members are there?
The Brewstock Cooperative currently has 31 members.
How are decisions made and who runs the day-to-day?
The cooperative elects a Board of Directors from its members. Any member can petition to serve on the board, which strives to represent a diverse mix of club members, professional brewers, and other experienced individuals who can help guide the store. The board appoints a General Manager to oversee daily operations and manage the store’s employees. In the current structure, retail shifts are covered by member volunteers, who keep the shop running and provide knowledgeable assistance to customers.
Brewstock’s Board currently consists of:
Caleb Hicks — President
Josh Dupuis — Vice President
Daniel Bryde — Treasurer
Greg Johnson — Secretary
Greg Hackenberg
Jon Moore
Alex Bell
Brewstock currently has two co-General Managers, who are also founders and board members: Daniel Bryde and Greg Johnson.
Will there be annual revenue sharing?
As part of the cooperative model, any profits will either be reinvested into the store or allocated on a pro-rata basis to the members. While we believe Brewstock can be profitable enough to return some of these profits, this is not an investment intended for significant financial gain. The primary purpose is to keep Brewstock alive as a resource and gathering place for local homebrewers for years to come.
Are there other ways I can provide support?
Please continue to shop at Brewstock and spread the word about cooperative membership to anyone who might be interested!
I’m ready to join—how do I do so?
Please email brewstockcooperative@gmail.com expressing your interest and your desired payment schedule (all at once or over three months). We will send you our operating agreement to review and sign. Payments can be made by cash or check made out to SAVE BREWSTOCK LLC.
Congrats and welcome! We’re so happy you’re here!