Smaller brewers are able to develop a regional flavor. Another factor may be this country's strong tradition of beer-brewing. The nation's first three presidents brewed their own beer. The industry didn't have the emphasis on national brands that characterizes it today. Brew pubs and microbreweries are bringing back pride in a home-grown product.
Fans can show that pride by wearing their favorite establishment's colors.
In fact, selling brand-name apparel has become a lucrative sideline for many smaller brewing companies. They're often home-brewers who enjoy trekking across the country to sample different brews and pick up paraphernalia. He or she also tends to have traveled and developed a taste for quality lager. A successful brew pub starts with a good restaurant in a comfortable environment on a suitable property. BATF licenses brewers, runs background checks on them, and inspects equipment and facilities on a regular basis.