Governor Hochul Announces Nominations Open for New York State Craft Beverage Retailer Awards

Program To Recognize Businesses that Promote State's Craft Beverage Industry

Nominations Accepted Through Friday, November 20

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of nominations for the New York State Craft Beverage Retailer Awards, designed to recognize merchants who help customers discover and enjoy craft beverages made in New York with locally grown ingredients. Awardees will receive a "New York State Retailer Award" to display at their businesses, online and in their marketing materials, recognizing their creativity and excellence in showcasing New York craft beverages. Nominations are being accepted through Friday, November 20.

“New York’s craft beverage industry is a point of pride for our state, bringing together hardworking farmers, innovative producers and small businesses that help drive our economy,” Governor Hochul said. “From neighborhood wine shops to local markets, retailers play an essential role in getting New York-made products into the hands of consumers. These awards will recognize the businesses going above and beyond to champion our homegrown producers, support local jobs and showcase the very best of what New York has to offer.”

Industry partner organizations and advocacy associations can nominate retailers for the awards. Empire State Development and the Department of Agriculture and Markets will receive, review and score applications. Retailers that score the highest will be referred to the State Liquor Authority to confirm they are in good standing, with the resulting nominations submitted to the Governor for selection. Up to three winners will be selected in each of the following categories: New York State Beer Retailer; New York State Wine Retailer; New York State Mead Retailer; New York State Liquor Retailer; and New York State Cider Retailer.

To be eligible for an award, a business must be based in New York State; licensed to sell beer, wine, mead, liquor and/or hard cider; in business for at least two years; demonstrate exceptional efforts to promote beverages made with New York State agricultural products; and in compliance with all SLA laws and regulations.

More information on the New York State Craft Beverage Retailer Awards, including application and program guidelines are available. Self-nomination is not permitted, and only organizations outlined in the requirements may recommend retailers. Eligible applicants are authorized to nominate up to three businesses, in up to two categories.

New York's breweries, wineries, meaderies, distilleries and cideries are vital economic engines, generating billions in annual economic activity, preserving thousands of acres of farmland and supporting more than 20,000 jobs statewide. By giving these products a place on their shelves and menus, retailers support New York’s farmers, contribute to regional economies, and help the State’s craft beverage industry grow.