This month marks a special milestone for all of us at 7 Devils Brewing Company: we’ve just released our 200th batch of Groundswell IPA! This flagship beer was originally named in honor of the “groundswell” of public support for local businesses and homegrown products we witnessed when we first opened. In the years leading up to the brewery’s launch, Oregon saw a remarkable surge in Farmers’ Markets and Artisans’ Markets, and a more general emphasis on buying local, hand-crafted products. Carmen and I were inspired by that movement and the growing appreciation for local goods.
One of the reasons we love Coos Bay and the surrounding communities is the self-reliance of the people who live here. If you need something built, engineered, or designed, you can likely find a local expert to get it done. This kind of resourcefulness is rare these days, and we wanted to celebrate it—and be a part of it.
You may have noticed the phrase “Join The Groundswell” under our IPA logo. To us, this means more than just buying a pint of local beer (although we hope you’ll do that too!). It’s about supporting local ingenuity and industry and inviting others to do the same. When we first built our brewery and pub, we made it a priority to hire local craftsmen, artists, and engineers to bring our vision to life. We also ensured that our menu featured a high percentage of locally sourced ingredients. Eleven years later, we’re still collaborating with our community to enhance the 7 Devils experience. That commitment to local collaboration has been key to our success—and it’s worth every bit of effort.
Looking around today, I see the continued growth and success of our own farmers’ market. I see new local businesses opening and thriving, while in many places big-box stores and online shopping have taken over. Here on the South Coast, that “groundswell” of support for local industry and artistry remains strong. And, after 11 years, Groundswell IPA is still our best-selling beer.
So, this month, let’s raise a glass of Groundswell IPA in celebration—not just of our 200th batch, but of the spirit of Coos Bay and all the local businesses that make our community special!
And, of course, a huge thank you to all the brewers and 7 Devils family who have had a hand in making the Groundwell over the years!
Cheers!
Annie Pollard, Co-Founder 7 Devils Brewing Co
