How Breweries Can Encourage Customers to Create and Share Content on Social Media

In today’s digital world, word-of-mouth marketing has taken on a whole new meaning. Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity for breweries to turn their customers into brand ambassadors. When people share their experiences online—whether it's a photo of a perfectly poured pint, a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, or a fun night out with friends—they help promote your brand organically.

So, how can breweries encourage customers to create and share content that highlights their experience? Here are some creative and effective strategies:

1. Create Instagrammable Spaces

People love snapping and sharing photos of aesthetically pleasing locations. Invest in good lighting, eye-catching murals, unique glassware, or neon signs with fun slogans like “Sip Happens” or “Hoppily Ever After.” Make your brewery a visually appealing space that inspires customers to take pictures and share them.

2. Encourage Branded Hashtags

Come up with a catchy, unique hashtag that customers can use when posting about your brewery. Something like #BrewedForYou or #HopsAndHappiness creates a sense of community while making it easier for you to track and engage with user-generated content.

3. Run Social Media Contests

Host a contest where customers post a photo or video at your brewery using your hashtag for a chance to win prizes such as free beer, merchandise, or discounts. A contest like “Best Beer Pic of the Month” encourages regular engagement and generates a steady stream of customer content.

4. Offer Incentives for Sharing

A simple way to get more social media content is to offer small incentives. For example, customers who tag your brewery in an Instagram story might receive a discount on their next drink, or those who post a reel about their visit might get a free sticker or coaster. Small rewards encourage participation without breaking the bank.

5. Create a Photo-Worthy Beer Flight or Special Drink

Unique presentations, colorful beers, or seasonal drinks encourage people to snap photos and share. Limited-time offerings—like a “rainbow flight” or a specialty holiday brew—can drive even more engagement.

6. Feature User-Generated Content on Your Own Social Media

People love seeing their posts shared by brands they love. Regularly showcase customer photos, videos, and reviews on your brewery’s official accounts (with credit, of course). This not only strengthens the relationship with your customers but also motivates others to post for a chance to be featured.

7. Encourage Check-Ins and Reviews

Customers checking in at your location on Facebook, tagging your brewery on Instagram, or leaving a review on Google or Yelp all boost visibility. Consider offering a small incentive—like a dollar off their next pint—for those who show proof of a check-in or review.

8. Host Social Media-Worthy Events

Trivia nights, live music, beer release parties, and unique brewery tours give customers more reasons to post about their experience. Special events create a natural buzz and increase the likelihood of social shares.

9. Collaborate with Local Influencers

Partnering with local beer enthusiasts, food bloggers, and influencers can help spread the word about your brewery. Invite them to special tastings, offer them exclusive content, and encourage them to share their experience with their followers.

10. Make It Fun and Authentic

Above all, ensure that your customers have a great time at your brewery. When people have a memorable experience, they’re more likely to share it. Encourage a relaxed, welcoming, and community-driven atmosphere where people feel inspired to create content naturally.

By making your brewery an exciting, engaging, and photo-worthy destination, you can turn your customers into powerful advocates who share their love for your brand with their social networks. The more they post, the more visibility and new visitors you’ll attract—one pint at a time.