Sapporo-Stone Brewing has added Joel Pipman as the new VP of Brewing Operations. Pipman will oversee both bi-coastal breweries, with a primary base in Richmond, VA, where they will produce approximately half of their beers for distribution across the Eastern and Central U.S. and international markets.
Pipman expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Sapporo-Stone team, citing their strong quality culture. His role will be instrumental in achieving the company’s objectives and crafting exceptional beer.
The leadership team at Sapporo-Stone Brewing faces the unique demands of being the leading Asian beer brand in the U.S. and steering Stone in the craft beer market.
Pipman’s background includes five years as Senior Brewmaster at Anheuser-Busch in Williamsburg, VA, with previous roles in engineering, quality assurance, finance, and maintenance at Anheuser-Busch breweries. He holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University, a Master’s in Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis, and a diploma in Brewing from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, alongside Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.
Both Sapporo-Stone breweries are undergoing substantial expansions, gearing up to brew all Sapporo beers for the U.S., in addition to Stone Brewing offerings. The company anticipates doubling its production to around 700,000 barrels in 2024.
Sapporo is the oldest Japanese beer and the leading Asian beer brand in the U.S., experiencing a 7.6% year-over-year growth. Stone Brewing is also making strides in the craft beer category, outpacing industry trends by nearly 4 points.