As the Chief Revenue Officer of our company, I had the pleasure of attending an exceptional event last night at Maine Beer Company in Freeport, where they recognized Maine’s 2023 finalists and winners of the highly competitive Good Food Awards. The brewery’s motto, “Do what’s right,” is not just a slogan – it’s a guiding principle that resonates with their commitment to their employees, the environment, and the local artisan food and drink community.
Maine Beer Company embodies this ethos through its generous employee benefits, including 100% health insurance coverage and dedication to supporting local charities and non-profits. Their commitment to sustainability is also apparent in their pledge to donate 1% of their gross annual sales to the 1% for the Planet Fund.
It was fitting that Maine Beer Company hosted the event, as they were among the award winners themselves. Their Little Whaleboat IPA, named after Casco Bay’s Little Whaleboat Island nature preserve, received recognition in the Beer category. This nature preserve is a testament to the tireless work of organizations like the Maine Coast Heritage Trust and the support of companies like Maine Beer Company.
The gathering brought together some of Maine’s finest artisan food and drink producers, showcasing their standout products in a casual and fun social setting. The impressive lineup included Smithereen Farm’s Seaweed Sprinkle seasoning mix, Dean’s Sweets’ hot fudge sauce, Ragged Coast Chocolates’ Tahini and Peanut Butter cups, Bard Coffee’s Ethiopia Gera Estate Natural Anaerobic bean coffee blend, Liquid Riot’s Beer and Spirits winners, Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association’s Monkfish Stew, and even Vermont’s Lawson’s Finest, who were invited to sample two of their award-worthy brews.
The atmosphere at the event was reflective of not only the host and its venue but also the Maine food and drink industry as a whole – upbeat, social, fun, and collaborative. It was a true celebration of individual successes, built on a foundation of passion, hard work, and respect for Maine’s natural beauty and bounty. I left the event feeling inspired and proud to be part of a community that truly values doing what’s right.
