Smart financial moves for beverage businesses to consider before the end of the year.
By Raj Tulshan, Founder & Managing Partner, Loan Mantra
In today’s economy it might seem like the best action is to remain still. To take little or no financial action at all. But this can be detrimental to your business. Even though inflation and interest rates are high, there are still smart financial moves that your beverage business can make now for continued success.
Interestingly, a Harvard Business Review article studied the specific actions of companies during recessionary periods.1 They measured the specific actions companies made during this time and the outcomes. It was found that a certain combination of decisions that company leaders made during this time made them more profitable coming out of and after the recession. The article states, “These companies acted progressively by deploying the right defensive and offensive moves to reduce costs selectively by focusing more on operational efficiency than their rivals do, even as they invested relatively comprehensively in the future by spending on marketing, R&D and new assets.” It is also interesting to note that successful companies cut operational waste versus people.
With these factors in mind, here are some financial moves to consider:
Capital Forecasting & Expenditures
Now is the time to forecast capital, credit and cash flow needed for the next 18 months. Consider new product development, seasonal and holiday spikes and shore up any money you will need. Consider USDA Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) for breweries/distilleries and state-level agribusiness/craft beverage incentives.2 Lock in long-term financing now while money and loans are readily available. Fintech platforms like those at loanmantra.com allow you to compare multiple lenders and access capital faster.
If you need new equipment the tax incentive, or bonus depreciation rate, is better this year than in 2026. In 2026, the rate is set to decrease to 20%, before being eliminated in 2027. If you plan to make large capital expenditures, consider accelerating them to take advantage of the more favorable depreciation schedule.
Partnerships & Growth
With many businesses struggling, establishing a partnership or acquiring another company might makes sense. As companies are forced to close, their customers will be looking for alternatives. Surprisingly, now is a great time to buy commercial real estate. Commercial real estate values are shifting where some markets are offering bargains for businesses ready to buy or lease. There may be less competition for prime locations. Less buyers also means that you have more negotiating power. And although interest rates can go down, you can always refinance the property.
Consumer Trends & Experiential Marketing
Identify which of the most current consumer trends apply to your customer base and market based on that. According to current reports, what appeals to consumers is community-based localism and having a unique experience with a brand. An example of promoting this could be a campaign like, “Drink Local, Support Local Farms.” Or tell a farm-to-glass story that resonates with inflation-weary but community-focused buyers. Taprooms, tasting rooms, tours and events provide higher margins than wholesale. Use digital tools to build brand engagement like TikTok Reels to showcase behind the scenes brewing, mixing and bottling. Encourage User generated content of customers drinking your brand with a hashtag that you share on social media channels.
Operations & Expense Management
Secure contracts for supply and pricing of ingredients early: hops, malt, fruit, glass can be volatile. Partner locally when and if possible. Aluminum can shortages are easing—explore canning over glass where margins allow. Eco-friendly packaging wins grants + consumer loyalty. Use part-time/seasonal labor during peak events. Upskill staff to cover multiple roles (bartender + tour guide).
Sales & Distribution
New distribution channels are only limited by your imagination. Test the places you think would be ideal for your products’ expansion. Here are some places to start: retailers, grocery stores, specialty shops, farmers markets, events management firms and catering companies. Another alternative is providing a beer truck for hire, keg with delivery (keg on legs) or other creative service. It’s about creating additional revenue streams. And as some states allow direct to consumer (DTC) sales, more opportunities arise.3 Beer of the month and subscription boxes offer consistent sources of income coming in.
Tech & Innovation
Look at the ways other industries are using AI and Data and learn from the good examples. For example, many businesses use AI for sales forecasting and seasonal product planning. Also look at different resources that are used by other craft brewers like: WriteCream Label Writer, BrewFather and BrewTarget, if you haven’t already explored these. And think outside the box. Many restaurants use QR codes for menus but how about using digital tip jars to streamline the taproom
experience? Or using customer relationship management systems to segment tasting room customers for targeted offers? And many brewers use sustainable business practices in the manufacturing process. Have you considered looking at grants that might apply to green technology that saves water, and energy?
Navigating the financial landscape of 2025 requires strategic planning and a keen eye on both current trends and future opportunities. For your beverage business, this means actively engaging in capital forecasting, taking advantage of tax incentives and exploring partnerships that can drive growth. By focusing on consumer trends, such as the demand for local and unique experiences and optimizing operations with eco-friendly practices, you can position your business for success despite economic challenges.
Leveraging new sales and distribution channels, including direct-to-consumer options and embracing tech and innovation can open additional revenue streams and improve efficiency. As you implement Remember that the key to thriving in a fluctuating economy is adaptability and a proactive approach to seizing opportunities as they arise.
By considering these financial moves, your beverage business can not only weather the economic uncertainties of 2025 but also emerge stronger and more competitive in the market. To contact the author, visit loanmantra.com or connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tulshan/
