Sustainability: Our Communities

Being a good neighbor

At Briess, we take owned being a fifth generation owned family company, with a rich history in malting and food ingredients. A decades-long family tradition lends to a sense of connection that extends to our team members and the communities in which we operate:

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing living wages and family-oriented benefits that promote health and well-being. The communities where we work are foundational to our way of life, and our engagement reflects a humble appreciation for the privilege of being a good neighbor.

Snapshot of partnerships, engagement and support

  • Briess hosts the annual Malt City Brewfest in its riverfront parking lot downtown Manitowoc. The popular event features 30 craft brewers with more than 100 beers, live music, and food trucks. A portion of the proceeds is donated to local charities.
  • Briess sponsors numerous events in the regions where we operate, including the Manitowoc Holiday Parade, Balloon Glow, Metro Jam, Calumet County Fair, North Pole Christmas Village, and many more.
  • Since 1998, Briess has helped provide employment training and opportunities for clients of the New Hope Center, a non-profit organization in Chilton that provides services for local residents with cognitive or other disabilities.
  • Since acquiring the 244-foot-high Manitowoc Malthouse, Briess has continued to support the Wisconsin Peregrine Falcon Recovery Project. More than 80 Peregrine Falcons have been born at the site since 1992, when the nest was installed in the Manitowoc elevator.
  • In 2017, Briess confirmed its commitment to the community of Manitowoc with continued public usage of its riverfront property. This assures a home for the popular Manitowoc Farmer’s Market and other public activities including an ice skating rink.
  • Many Briess growers in the Bighorn barley growing region operate multi-generational farms. Supporting the next generation of experienced barley grower is important to Briess. That’s why, every fall we actively participate in Park and surrounding counties’ Junior Livestock Auctions. Briess purchases provide funding for further education and training for these young farmers.
  • Many Briess employees are active in their communities, volunteering as firefighters, local elected officials, EMTs, youth sports coaches, and church and non-profit organization leaders.