Craft Beverages and Economic Development: Past, Present, and Future
October 27th from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Green Dragon Tavern
One of the more dynamic industries in North County over the past decade has been the region’s craft beverages industry. From beer to hard kombucha to distilled spirits, scores of firms have set up shop in businesses parks and downtowns throughout the region. Employing several thousand workers, the industry has been transformative to our region and has an estimated economic impact, county-wide, of at least $1.2 Billion.
Join us for the relaunch of SDNEDC’s “Lunch and Learn” series to hear more about where the industry has been, its current situation, and what the future of it holds for how our region will develop.
Panelists
Kevin Ham, Economic Development Director, City of Vista
Mr. Ham has been the Economic Development Director with the City of Vista, home to more craft brewers on a per capita basis than any other American city. At the city he is responsible for planning, administering, and implementing all programs, contracts, budgets, and promotions for the Vista Economic Development Department. He serves as the primary interface between the City, the business community, civic leaders and acts as the Business Ombudsman for the City.
David Barnett, Director, Americas Research, JLL
David Barnett is Director of Americas Research for the Work Dynamics platform at JLL. He advises corporate clients among various industries in workplace planning, real estate portfolio strategy, and market feasibility analysis. David produces thought leadership and data analytics on commercial real estate trends, development, and economic conditions.
Moderator
Vince Vasquez, National University System
Vince Vasquez is the Director of Government Relations at the National University System, a non-profit institution based in Torrey Pines, and has served in this role since 2017. Vince has seventeen years of experience as a think tank analyst and researcher and has previously served in roles as Senior Policy Analyst and Senior Economist. He has authored seven research reports on San Diego’s craft brewing industry, including two focusing on North County.