Brewing Success: The 88 Brewing Secret Recipe

What to expect from this interview?

We had the chance to catch up with Donovan Fast from Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. and dive deep into their story of rapid growth and success. In this interview, we establish the best of the craft beer industry, highlighting a crossroads of innovation and tradition, exploring Donovan Fast’s journey with Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. emerges as a beacon of innovation within Calgary’s dynamic beer landscape. This article explores his brewing philosophy, the growth of 88 Brewing, and the pivotal role of technology, especially PLAATO Pro, in overcoming industry hurdles.

Listen To The Full Interview With Donovan Fast on Another Round Podcast

Donovan Fast’s Brewing Philosophy and Journey

“ ‘Like making WORT is not…hard…but keeping morale high when you’re that busy…I think it’s exciting to come to WORT.”

Here, the dual nature of brewing—both a science and an art, underscored by teamwork—is illuminated. Fast’s background in microbiology informs his commitment to quality and innovation, shifting gears from a potential career in medicine to brewing.

The Evolution of Eighty-Eight Brewing Co.

Eighty-Eight Brewing Co’s story is one of strategic expansion, brand development, and technological incorporation for quality maintenance. The growth from two to twelve employees within five years highlights the essential role of adaptability and teamwork. “It takes one bad batch to…ruin your brand,” Fast warns, pointing to the significance of quality control, where PLAATO Pro’s monitoring capabilities are invaluable.

Learn how PLAATO Pro Can Help You Never Get A "Bad Batch" Again

Branding and Market Presence

With a focus on vibrant branding and a unique market position, Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. has seen significant growth, attracting a broad audience and achieving a 20% annual sales increase. “The brewery’s marketing strategy is based on the Olympics brewery, which is a popular brand,” Fast explains, shedding light on their branding strateg

"Quality control can never be forgotten no matter how fast you're growing,"

In the fast-paced craft brewing world, Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. faced the challenge of scaling production without compromising on quality. They prioritized quality control, outsourcing it to ensure each batch met their high standards, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence. This decision to dump any batch that didn’t meet their criteria underscored a simple yet profound commitment to quality over quantity.

The installation of a 30-ton grain silo marked a significant milestone, streamlining their brewing process and highlighting their growth from a small-scale operation to a more robust production system.

“The amount of man hours we’re not spending moving pallets around…that was a big one for us.”

This strategic move allowed 88 Brewing to focus more on crafting high-quality beer, maintaining the integrity and flavor that customers have come to expect, even amid rapid expansion.

Maintaining Morality and Corporate Culture

Eighty-Eight Brewing Co., under the guidance of Donovan Fast, has made significant strides in cultivating a vibrant workplace culture. Fast explains, “we’ve been lucky… our ownership group… allowed us to pivot quickly,” showcasing their adaptability and commitment to employee welfare. This ethos extends to their pandemic response; converting a storage bay into a communal space for employees to relax and socialize, with activities like Nintendo 64 gaming sessions, reflecting a thoughtful approach to boosting morale and mental health. Fast highlights the importance of creating a fun environment, stating, “it’s hard to motivate everyone to take on more responsibilities,” but emphasizing the value of maintaining high spirits and involvement among the team.

Conclusion - Passion Meets Quality Standards

Donovan Fast’s journey with Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. illustrates a harmonious blend of passion, innovation, and a strong corporate culture. The brewery’s success is a testament to the strategic application of technology, and a commitment to maintaining a positive work environment. As Fast succinctly puts it, focusing on “quality control” and adapting to market trends have been pivotal. This story underscores the broader narrative within the craft beer industry, where technological integration and an emphasis on workplace morale are crucial for sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive edge.