Brewery Merchandise Ideas: Beyond the Pint Glass

Your Merchandise is an Extension of Your Brand

Every brewery sells pint glasses. They are great, and you should absolutely have them (here is our guide to ordering custom pint glasses in bulk). But if pint glasses are all you offer, you are leaving money and brand awareness on the table.

The best brewery merchandise programs offer a range of products at different price points, giving every visitor something they want to buy. Let us explore the options beyond the classic pint glass.

Barware and Drinkware

Custom Shot Glasses

Custom shot glasses are a lower price point entry into your merchandise lineup. They are collectible, giftable, and popular with tourists and first-time visitors who want a small keepsake. Price them at $5-$8 retail for a healthy margin.

Whiskey and Rocks Glasses

If you produce any spirits or barrel-aged beers, custom whiskey glasses are a natural fit. Engraved versions have a premium feel that justifies a higher price point ($12-$18 retail).

Stemless Wine Glasses

Do you host wine nights or serve cider? Branded stemless wine glasses expand your drinkware lineup and appeal to a different audience.

Boot Beer Glasses

The boot beer glass is a conversation piece that stands out on any merchandise shelf. Perfect for Oktoberfest promotions or as a unique gift option. These move especially well during holiday shopping season.

Growlers and Crowlers

Branded growlers (32 oz and 64 oz) serve a dual purpose: they are functional for take-home beer and they are walking advertisements for your brewery every time a customer refills.

Bar Accessories

Custom Coasters

Branded coasters are one of the most underrated merchandise items. Sell packs of 4-6 coasters for $8-$12. Cork or ceramic options feel like a real gift item. They are lightweight, easy to display, and have great margins.

Rubber Bar Mats

Custom bar mats are popular with home bar enthusiasts. A branded rubber mat priced at $15-$25 is a unique item that most competitors do not offer. Your biggest fans will love putting your mat on their home bar.

Custom Cocktail Napkins

Sell packs of branded cocktail napkins for home entertaining. A pack of 100 napkins for $10-$15 is an easy impulse buy at the register.

Pricing Strategy for Brewery Merchandise

These margins are typical for brewery retail. Volume discounts on your wholesale orders bring costs down further.

Display and Merchandising Tips

Great products need great presentation. Here is how to maximize merchandise sales in your taproom:

• Position near the register: Your merchandise display should be visible from the bar and easy to browse while waiting to pay.
• Use the products: Serve drinks in your branded glassware. When customers ask "Where can I get one of these?" point them to the display.
• Create gift sets: Bundle a pint glass, coaster set, and napkins in a branded box for a ready-made gift at $25-$35.
• Seasonal rotation: Introduce limited-edition designs for holidays, anniversaries, or special beer releases.
• Social media: Photograph your merch beautifully and post regularly. Many taproom purchases start with an Instagram discovery.

Seasonal and Limited-Edition Ideas

Limited-edition merchandise creates urgency and excitement:

• Anniversary glasses: A special pint glass for your brewery's anniversary, numbered or dated.
• Beer release glasses: A unique glass designed for a specific beer release. Sell with first pours.
• Holiday gift packs: Curated gift boxes with an assortment of branded items.
• Collaboration merch: Co-branded items with partner breweries, local artists, or food vendors.
• Oktoberfest boot glasses: Seasonal boot glasses that are only available during your Oktoberfest celebration.

Online Sales

Do not limit your merchandise to taproom-only sales. Set up an online store to reach fans who cannot visit in person. Ship nationally for expanded revenue. Popular items for online sales include glassware sets, bar mats, and gift bundles.

Getting Started

Start with what sells, then expand. A solid starter merchandise lineup includes:

1. Custom pint glasses (your anchor product)
2. Custom shot glasses (low price point entry)
3. Coaster sets (unique and giftable)
4. One premium item (whiskey glass or bar mat)

As sales grow, add seasonal items, gift bundles, and specialty products. The key is to offer something at every price point so every visitor can take a piece of your brand home.

Ready to build your merchandise program? Request a quote for any combination of custom barware, and we will help you put together a lineup that fits your brand and budget. For the complete guide to barware options, visit our Complete Guide to Custom Barware for Restaurants, Bars, and Events. And for more ideas on using promotional products for your business, read our Ultimate Guide to Promotional Products for Small Business.