Lawson’s Finest Liquids is a destination for beer travelers gliding through Vermont, but thanks to the leadership of founding brewer and co-owner Sean Lawson, 2023 represented a banner year for his life’s work.
This spring, he guided the brewery to achieve B Corp Status, becoming one of just 18 beer-making businesses in the country to earn that recognition amongst thousands. But the highest social and environmental recognition a company can be awarded wasn't his apex. By the summer, Lawson’s Finest crossed the threshold of $2 million donated through its Social Impact Program, which includes support of nonprofits focused on food security, emergency responders, protecting natural resources, and much more. In the fall, the brewery reached the ability to use 100% renewable energy, which includes the installation of the largest solar canopy in the Green Mountain State.
There was beer, too, with the brewery debuting two new brands—Hazy Rays IPA and Big Hazy Double IPA—which vaulted to #3 and #5 in the company’s chain retail portfolio.
It’s been a busy year for Lawson, from beer to benevolence. He’s has made a career out of his commitment to crafting beautiful beers, but it’s his work beyond the brewery—which he co-owns with his wife, Karen—that makes him someone worth celebrating.
Words,Matt Osgood