Ft. Collins Colorado is home to New Belgium Brewing. This is a unique and exceptionally successful business that is driven by values.
They get it right and have a great time in the process. Continuity – They tell it like it is expected to be in a creative way that fits with the fun that permeates the business.
The Church of Fermentology
The four values above are samples of the twelve that people live by in the brewhouse.
We have gotten to know New Belgium pretty well and the following words are the essence of the foundation upon which the business is built.
“It’s my company
If it were your company, what would you do? Look for ways to be less wasteful, be more efficient, recycle and reuse? Yep. It’s infectious. Once you start thinking of ways to make your company better, you can’t stop.
In 1998, a unanimous vote by employee owners switched New Belgium to wind power. The first wind powered brewery in the United States, thank you very much.
And, like all responsible business owners, it’s important to know your bottom-line, barrels, and books. Meet New Belgium’s practice of open-book management: a policy of fiscal transparency throughout the company that encourages a community of trust and mutual responsibility.
It’s something good. All agreed. “
The prospective employee screening process is so rigorous that talent, credentials while important do not trump fit into the culture. That’s true for senior execs and entry-level people, yet most senior execs come from within.
Most of us can’t work there. If you are in Fort Collins, however, you can stop in for free beer and a tour. The experience is worth the trip out from Denver.