2025 CEBC

Program

See below for the exciting line-up of seminars and presenters! We will include tasting seminars, panel discussions and meet the brewer sessions.

Evan Rail

We are pleased to announce that Evan Rail, award winning journalist will once again lead us through a series of seminars and round table discussions from industry leading presenters.

He is a regular contributor of articles about European beer for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Beer Advocate, All About Beer, Imbibe, Saveur, Good Beer Hunting and other publications.

Evan Rail

We are pleased to announce that Evan Rail, award winning journalist will once again lead us through a series of seminars and round table discussions from industry leading presenters.

He is a regular contributor of articles about European beer for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Beer Advocate, All About Beer, Imbibe, Saveur, Good Beer Hunting and other publications.

Presenters

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Nobody Owns Craft: Trends to Know from North America and Around the World

Some of the most cutting-edge innovations in small-scale brewing are happening in the United States, and many people think of craft beer as an American(-style) thing—but it isn’t, and it never was. It’s a global conversation that’s continuing, and accelerating, and more of the world is going to have a bigger say in the years to come. Joe plans to share some observations about the latest trends in North America and how they might be useful to European brewers—but he’ll also zoom out and look at what’s happening in other countries, and how people are processing “craft” through their own traditions, ingredients, and local tastes.

Joe Stange is the executive editor of Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine, the Brewing Industry Guide, and Craft Spirits & Distilling, Also the co-author of the Good Beer Guide Belgium (with Tim Webb) and Around Brussels in 80 Beers (with Yvan De Baets), he’s also an experienced beer judge, mediocre homebrewer, and obsessive foodie. He currently lives in Bangkok.

Benefits of AI in the Brewing sector
This seminar focuses on AI’s role in the brewing industry by showcasing the practical applications and sharing real-world examples of successful AI implementations. Ultimately, the seminar aims to alleviate fears associated with AI, inspire the audience with its potential, and encourage creative solutions for your brewery by highlighting what the industry has already achieved.
Dr. Thomas Schlechter holds various academic degrees in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Information Technology (EEI), Economics and Psychology. In 2019 he took part in a beer brewing course at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria and since then, his passion for beer has never left him. He has taught brewing courses at the university resulting in winning the Austrian National Beer Brewing Championship 2023 with his students in the category “Festbiere”. He is also a certified Brewery Sensory Expert and Biersommelier.

Beer ON-flavours: Build your flavour vocabulary and become a better beer taster

Instead of focusing on off-flavours (which we often do in beer education), we will focus on identifying the on-flavours – the positive aromas that enhance our tasting experience. This will help build our flavour vocabularies and become better beer tasters. Natalya will prepare flavour kits with real world examples of different malt-, yeast-, and hop-derived aromas (things like bread, digestive biscuit, coffee, chocolate, clove, black pepper, banana sweets, raisins, dried mango, grapefruit, etc) to enable attendees to familiarise themselves with and make a memory of each aroma. Then, we’ll put our skills to the test, by tasting 3 beers together to see which of these possible aromas we can detect and describe in the glasses in front of us. Based on successful presentations at UK trade shows, this seminar demonstrates that mastering beer tasting is accessible and fun.

Natalya Watson is an award-winning beer educator passionate about sharing her knowledge of beer with others because she believes that beer is simply too delicious to remain undiscovered. Natalya joined WSET as Business Development Manager in September 2023 to support the launch of the organisation’s new beer qualifications within Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Prior to joining WSET, she ran her own online beer education business, Virtual Beer School, for which she was named Training Professional of the Year at the British Institute of Innkeeping’s 2022 National Innovation in Training Awards. Natalya is qualified as an IBD Beer Sommelier and Advanced Cicerone®. She is also the author of Beer: Taste the Evolution in 50 Styles (Kyle Books, 2020).

Opportunities in circular business models for the Craft Beer Industry: dream or reality?
How close are we to a future of zero-waste, circular operations in the beer industry? In her presentation, Lena will explore opportunities to make beer production more circular. Through case studies, she will showcase innovative solutions and global practices for reusing waste, while discussing the economic feasibility of scaling these initiatives.

Lena Molnar focuses on circular operations design, helping producers and retailers reimagine their value chains and operations to be more sustainable while capturing improved economic benefits. She is a manager at PwC on the technology-driven transformations team, with expertise at the intersection of technical solution design, selection, implementation, and business operations restructuring. Lena is also a Climatebase Fellow, participating in a San Francisco-based educational program and network aimed at scaling sustainable practices globally.

How to become a digital champion? Online presence and trends in the beverage retail industry
In today’s digital age, establishing a strong online presence and sales is crucial for success in retail. This presentation will provide insights into effective strategies for building and enhancing online visibility and sales, with a focus on the beverage retail industry with specific examples from the Craft Beer industry. Attendees will gain an overview of key digital tools, marketing techniques, and current trends to help them become digital champions and drive growth in their businesses.
With 15 years of experience in digital marketing, István Kolbert specializes in crafting data-driven strategies that transform business goals into actionable plans. His expertise spans across e-commerce, SaaS, travel, gaming, esports, and more, with a proven track record of building high-performing teams and driving growth for both international startups and established companies. He has helped businesses optimize their online presence, boost sales, and successfully navigate diverse markets, including Hungary, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific region.
Unlocking the Power of AI: Transforming Efficiency, Quality, and Performance in the Brewing Industry
AI quickly became a buzzword in the last two years, but it is more than writing an official email or creating a funny image with the computer. The possibilities provided by AI can be utilized in practical areas such as the companies’ operational excellence; other industries have already recognised these opportunities, why should the brewing industry miss out? Efficiency, quality, sales performance – we can find the best tools for the best results.

József Mari is a Manager in PwC’s technology consulting practice who joined PwC in 2016. In the beginning, he gained his experience in the energy sector, especially with projects related to electromobility. Later on, he worked on innovative, technology focused projects that included creating digital customer experience, building business cases for IT systems, coordinating app development, designing payment services or creating feasibility studies and strategies. Recently, he is responsible for IT implementations and company-wide digitisation projects and he also supports his clients in the adoption of new technologies like AI.

Unlocking Flavour Potential: How Hybrid Yeasts and Smart Brewing Techniques Enhance Beer Aromas
Brewers, want to make your beers stand out with amazing hop flavors? The key might lie in the right combination of yeast, hops, and fermentation techniques! In this seminar, we’ll dive into how modern brewing approaches—like using hybrid yeasts and carefully selecting ingredients—can boost your beer’s aroma and flavor. We’ll focus on the magic behind the release of hop compounds such as terpenes, thiols, and others, which give beers their signature aromas, from tropical fruit to floral notes. By understanding how yeast can release these compounds through biotransformation, and how to manage factors like temperature and yeast nutrients, you can enhance the sensory profile of your beer. This talk will also explore the exciting potential of hybrid yeasts, which are specially bred to release even more of these aroma-packed compounds, helping you create unique and complex flavors, learning how to use yeast and hops to craft beers with unforgettable flavors!

Carlos de la Barra has over 20 years of international experience in the food and beverage industry, focusing on production management and technical support. Expertise includes R&D, technical case studies, and sensory evaluation. Having led production teams in premium wine and beer production across the globe, Carlos’ career includes roles such as Head Brewer at Beer52 in the UK, Quality & Technical Brewing Manager at Omnipollo in Sweden, and Winemaker at Pernod Ricard in New Zealand, along with contributions to industry journals and conferences, reflecting a solid scientific foundation and technical expertise

Make your choice for Lager

Brewing craft lager beers is more than just a trend—it’s a growing movement, and there’s a rising demand for aromatic, flavourful lagers that stand out from the crowd. Along with tried-and-true, time-tested yeast strains, Fermentis is now offering a fresh approach to unlocking the unique esters in lager beers. Learn about their exciting new method: brewing lager beer at elevated temperatures while still preserving its signature clean and neutral taste. Join us and discover how these advancements are shaping the future of craft lagers!

Gilles Goemaere Hailing from Belgium Gilles graduated from the Catholic University of Louvain-la-Neuve as a Bio-Engineer with a specialization in Malting and Brewing Sciences and has over ten years’ experience in the brewing industry. Firstly, as a Master Brewer in a microbrewery in Belgium and more recently as technical support for Fermentis where he has acquired a strong experience solving technical and microbiological issues in customers’ breweries.

Malted broad bean and its use in the beer industry

Discover an innovative approach to regenerative agriculture and sustainable beverage production with Viking Malt which has a positive impact on reducing the carbon footprint. Growing this legume revitalizes the soil and improves biodiversity. Thanks to its unique processing, Sprau® has a mild taste and can be used both in beer and in food products such as soft drinks, vegan yoghurts or other plant-based products. Furthermore, Sprau® enhances hop aroma and flavour, which is particularly important for the beer industry in the context of heavily hopped beers. Join us and find out how Viking Malt’s innovations can contribute to a more sustainable future!
Artur Kamiński is Viking Malt’s Sales Manager. He is responsible for developing the sales network in the craft brewery sector in Poland and South Central Europe. He is a certified beer judge with 11 years of experience, a home brewer, and the editor-in-chief of “Piwowar” (“The Brewer”) magazine.
Best Beer Ever! 3.5/5: Harnessing Consumer Insights to Boost Brewery Success
In this session, we’ll explore how breweries can use consumer feedback and ratings to enhance their operations, reach new audiences, and make informed decisions across various aspects of their business—without getting too frustrated by those ratings humbugs. By drawing on a wealth of user-generated data, breweries can uncover valuable insights into market trends, customer preferences, and brand performance. We’ll discuss practical ways to leverage these insights to optimise marketing efforts, refine product offerings, and strengthen customer engagement. This talk will provide actionable strategies to help breweries tap into the potential of consumer data, fostering sustainable growth and success in a competitive industry.

Cayle Lackten is the Business Development Manager Europe at Next Glass (Untappd), responsible for driving growth across Europe and outside the US and Canada. With a decade of experience in the craft beer industry, Cayle has played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of several businesses in the Netherlands, including a tap room, a bottle shop, and a craft beer import & distribution company. His passion for fostering community connections and his deep understanding of the European market have been instrumental in enhancing the global reach of Next Glass’s innovative products and services. An advocate for sustainable growth, Cayle is dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional brewing methods and modern technology to support breweries in their evolution.

How To Øl has been able to navigate the changing craft beer landscape

The beer consumer’s palette is changing. Everything from healthy life choices, through to societal pressures are affecting what people drink. There has been a global shift towards non-alcoholic options and less flashy styles that have stood the test of time, and away from the high-octane, fruity, hop intense beers that defined the industry for so many years. Globally, many smaller breweries are closing. In 2024, the numbers are showing that more breweries closed than new breweries opened. Amidst this uncertainty, To Øl has been able to navigate, evolve and change with the market to stay relevant. Tim is set to give real-world examples of how To Øl has managed to adapt to the changing market by; evolving marketing and sale strategies, through to creating a more diverse portfolio of products that expand their reach to a wider audience. All while still challenging the perception of what a Craft Brewery can be.

Tim Zydek is a brewer and a quality management assistant for To Øl in Denmark. Tim has been brewing professionally since 2019 but he started his flavour journey much earlier as a chef with an Associates Degree in Culinary Arts. He brought this experience into beer when he started brewing at Little Beast Brewing in Portland, Oregon. It was at Little Beast where he learned he had a passion for flavor and brewing. He spent his formative years here, gaining experience with brewing, cellar work, packaging, quality and pub management. In early 2022 he moved to Copenhagen to continue his brewing career at To Øl where he works, alongside his colleagues, to consistently improve the products To Øl offers. As a Certified CiceroneⓇ, chef and brewer he uses his knowledge and discerning palate to educate, define, and push forward what beer can be.

Meet the Brewery
Steffen Laakmann is the head of export sales at BRLO, the famous Berlin-based craft brewery that blends tradition with innovation, offering a diverse range of beers. Founded in 2014, the brewery’s flagship BRWHOUSE in Kreuzberg is built from repurposed shipping containers, serving as both a production hub and a vibrant gastro destination with award-winning, vegetable-focused cuisine. Proudly rooted in Berlin’s spirit, BRLO continues to craft exceptional beers while prioritizing sustainability and unforgettable experiences.

Workshop

The Future of Craft Beer: Innovations in Malting

Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop led by Fedor Nikolashkin, an esteemed international malting and brewing expert from Weyermann® Specialty Malts. This session will immerse you in the exciting world of malting, where you’ll discover the latest trends and techniques that are shaping the craft beer industry.

What to Expect: 

  1. Exploration of New Malting Trends: Delve into the innovative approaches in malting that are transforming flavor profiles and brewing processes. Fedor will guide you through the latest advancements and how they can enhance your brewing practices.
  2.  Malt and Beer Tasting Experience: Engage your senses in a curated tasting session where you’ll sample a variety of malts and beers. Learn to identify different malt characteristics and understand how they influence the final product.
  3. Collaborative Recipe Discussion: Bring your creativity to the table as we discuss several beer recipes that highlight the use of unique malts. This is a fantastic opportunity to share ideas, gain feedback, and refine your brewing techniques alongside fellow craft beer enthusiasts.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from a true expert and elevate your brewing game! Join us for this transformative workshop and take away valuable insights that will inspire your craft beer journey.

Fedor Nikolashkin is an esteemed international malting and brewing expert at Weyermann® Specialty Malts. With a Brewmaster’s diploma from the Doemens Academy in Munich, Fedor’s expertise is complemented by his designation as a Doemens Beer Sommelier, earned in 2015. With over 20 years of experience in malting and brewing, he has made significant contributions to craft beer production globally. Fedor’s deep knowledge and passion for brewing continue to inspire industry professionals, making him a sought-after speaker at craft beer conferences. Join Fedor as he shares insights from his extensive career in the craft beer field.

Workshop

Master the Art of Winning Beer Competitions!

Are you ready to elevate your brewing game? Join us for an exciting workshop with Kilian Kittl, the renowned competition director of the European Beer Star. Discover the insider secrets to navigating beer competitions, from overcoming challenges to securing those coveted medals. In this dynamic session, you’ll dive into the flavor profiles that captivate judges and learn what truly sets award-winning beers apart. Gain valuable insights into the jury’s composition and the specific qualities judges seek in your brews. Plus, find out how winning medals can transform your brewery’s success and market presence! Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert knowledge and connect with fellow brewing enthusiasts. Sign up now and take the first step toward competition success!

Kilian Kittl began his brewing journey in a Bavarian brewery, where he honed his craft and developed a passion for beer. Armed with a Master of Science in Brewing and Beverage Technology from the prestigious Technical University of Munich/Weihenstephan, Kilian has built an impressive career as a Project Manager in both the beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Currently serving as the Competition Director for the European Beer Star and a consultant for the Private Brauereien Bayern association, Kilian is at the forefront of the brewing world. His extensive experience and insider knowledge make him the perfect mentor to help you navigate the complexities of beer competitions. Join Kilian in this workshop to uncover invaluable tips and tricks that can propel your brewery to new heights. Don’t miss the chance to learn from a true expert and transform your brewing ambitions into reality!

Workshop

Tired of the hassles of traditional beer serving?
Discover Serving Beer Tanks, the revolutionary Bag-in-Tank solution that simplifies your operations and elevates your beer quality. Experience the difference of effortless pouring, reduced waste, and perfectly conditioned beer every time.

Ivan Boudjema brings over a decade of experience in the global beer industry, specializing in expansion strategies, flow management and technical roles. As a pioneer in the development of Serving Beer Tank technology in France and a distinguished Mueller ambassador for Southwestern Europe, Ivan possesses a deep understanding of industry trends and innovative solutions

Workshop

Advancing Brewery Sustainability: Innovations in Leak Detection, Air Quality, Water Treatment, and Energy Efficiency

This workshop explores cutting-edge technologies and strategies to enhance sustainability in the brewing industry. Attendees will gain insights into innovative leak detection systems that prevent water and energy loss, advances in air quality management to reduce environmental impact, and state-of-the-art water treatment methods for minimizing wastewater. Additionally, the seminar will delve into energy efficiency practices and tools that help breweries reduce their carbon footprint while improving operational performance and saving money. Join us to learn how these innovations are transforming the brewing sector and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Erika Horváth, Join Erika, a sustainability and water treatment expert with over 20 years of experience, for a seminar focused on the brewing industry. As Managing Director of Klarwin Hungary, Erika has led the implementation of advanced water treatment and waste management technologies across multiple countries. With a strong commitment to sustainable practices, she specializes in optimizing water usage, waste reduction, and circular economy principles, helping breweries achieve cleaner, more efficient operations. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Erika’s expertise in driving sustainability and innovation in the brewing sector.

Lucian Pavel is a seasoned expert in water treatment, waste management and carbon footprint reduction. As Head of the Environmental Department at Klarwin Romania, Lucian has pioneered groundbreaking projects in water and waste management across Europe.. Currently focusing on the brewery industry, Lucian is developing innovative solutions to optimize water usage, waste management, and sustainability practices in brewing.

Venue

The Central European University (CEU) is located in the heart of the city—within steps of the Basilica, the Parliament and the Danube. Plenty of great lunch spots nearby as well as a restaurant inside the building.

Why Budapest?

Discover the Heartbeat of Brewing at CEBC 2025 in Budapest!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic brewing community.

Accomodation with discount​

We recommend the ROOMbach Hotel close to the venue and reasonably priced.

Book your accomodation with a 15% discount until 10th January 2025 based on the availability using the promo code CEBC2025

14 Rumbach Sebestyén utca,
Budapest H-1075

The event is sponsored by

Supporters