The Evolution of Kinkaider Brewing Company and the Nebraska Craft Beer Scene

When it comes to Nebraska craft beer, one name stands out—Kinkaider Brewing Company. Based in Broken Bow, Nebraska, Kinkaider has grown from a small operation in a rural community into a thriving brewery with multiple locations and a dedicated following. Recently, Cody Schmick, co-owner of Kinkaider Brewing Company, joined the Oh My Omaha podcast with hosts Kim Reiner and Dee Harrell to discuss the brewery’s journey, their innovative approach, and the broader Nebraska craft beer industry.

A Humble Beginning in Broken Bow

Kinkaider Brewing Company was founded in 2014 by Cody Schmick and three partners in Broken Bow, a small town of 3,500 people in central Nebraska. The brewery began on a four-acre farm just north of town, which Cody proudly calls one of the largest beer gardens in the state. The farm features a full bed-and-breakfast, outdoor volleyball pits, dinner service, beer tastings, and live shows, making it a true community hub.

Cody shared how Broken Bow embraced the brewery as a focal point of the community. Whether it’s hosting Oktoberfest or drawing visitors to their B&B, Kinkaider has had a significant economic impact on the area. Events like Oktoberfest, which bring in over a thousand attendees, are particularly impressive given the town’s population. This community-first mindset has remained central to Kinkaider’s ethos as they’ve expanded across the state.

Expanding Across Nebraska

Kinkaider’s growth is remarkable. The brewery now operates taprooms in Omaha’s Aksarben Village, Lincoln’s Haymarket district, and soon-to-open locations in Kearney. Their German-inspired beer hall concept, featuring a menu of sausages, pretzels, and beer cocktails, has been particularly successful in Lincoln. Plans are underway to bring the same concept to Omaha.

Each of Kinkaider’s locations is designed to reflect the unique character of its surrounding community. As Cody explained, they deliberately avoided the “cookie-cutter” model many businesses follow. Instead, they crafted each taproom to match the vibe of its neighborhood, creating distinct experiences while maintaining consistency in branding. This approach, while challenging, resonates with craft beer enthusiasts who value novelty and authenticity.

Flagship Beers and Fan Favorites

Kinkaider is well-known for its innovative beer offerings, with its Devil’s Gap Jalapeño Ale serving as a standout. Initially, Cody was skeptical of the idea of a jalapeño beer, but it has since become one of their most popular brews, even earning praise on national television. During the podcast, Cody shared a memorable story about Devil’s Gap being featured on the ABC show “The Chew,” where it received rave reviews as the perfect beer to pair with a burger.

Another flagship beer is Snow Beast, a cinnamon-vanilla winter warmer that has become the biggest seasonal beer in Nebraska. Recently, Kinkaider extended the Snow Beast brand to include a cinnamon-vanilla whiskey, which has seen impressive sales in its inaugural season. This willingness to experiment and expand into new products has helped the brewery remain fresh and relevant in a competitive market.

To ensure they stay innovative, Kinkaider encourages its brew team to experiment with small-batch beers using a one-barrel system. While not every experiment makes it to market, this creative freedom has led to some of their most successful beers.

Building a Community-Focused Brand

Kinkaider’s emphasis on community is not limited to its hometown of Broken Bow. In every location, the brewery strives to create family-friendly spaces where people of all ages can gather and connect. Outdoor spaces with games like cornhole, welcoming atmospheres, and inclusive menus make Kinkaider a go-to destination for families.

For those planning a visit to Broken Bow, Cody highlighted the unique experience of staying at their on-site B&B, complete with a “shower beer” fridge—a quirky feature that’s become a favorite among guests. From beautiful Sandhills sunsets to firefly-lit evenings, the location offers a serene backdrop for enjoying a cold brew.

The Broader Nebraska Craft Beer Scene

Cody also discussed the collaborative spirit within Nebraska’s craft beer community. While competition exists, he emphasized that local breweries see themselves as allies in growing the craft beer market. He noted that introducing people to one craft beer often leads them to explore others, benefitting the entire industry. Breweries like White Elm in Lincoln and Scratchtown in Ord are among Cody’s personal favorites, and he praised Omaha’s thriving beer scene, including innovators like Brickway and Kros Strain.

Interestingly, Cody views Kinkaider’s main competition not as other breweries, but as entertainment options like Netflix. The challenge, he said, is convincing people to leave their homes and enjoy social experiences at taprooms. This perspective underscores the importance of creating memorable environments and building connections with customers.

Challenges and Triumphs in a Competitive Industry

The craft beer industry is not without its challenges. Cody touched on the financial pressures facing breweries, particularly as the industry matures and competition increases. However, Kinkaider has navigated these challenges by staying adaptable, investing in quality, and fostering a strong team culture.
The brewery’s success has also been bolstered by legislative advocacy. Cody shared how Kinkaider worked with other local breweries to lobby for lower taxes on canned cocktails, paving the way for their expansion into this growing market. This collaborative effort highlights the brewery’s proactive approach to overcoming obstacles.

Looking Ahead: Kearney and Beyond

Kinkaider’s future is bright. The upcoming Kearney location will feature both a beer hall and a taproom, marking the company’s first ground-up build. Cody expressed excitement about the opportunity to design a space that reflects their vision from the start, despite the inevitable challenges of such a project. With plans to hire an additional 30-40 team members, Kinkaider is poised to continue its growth.

As the brewery celebrates its 10th anniversary, Cody reflected on the journey and the milestones they’ve achieved. From national TV recognition to loyal local customers, Kinkaider’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to community.

Final Thoughts: Small Business, Big Impact

Cody’s passion for small business and community building was evident throughout the podcast. He believes that small businesses have the power to transform communities and is committed to supporting others in the industry. His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? Focus on three things: atmosphere, product quality, and service. Nail these, and success will follow.
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a casual drinker, or someone looking for a welcoming place to gather with friends and family, Kinkaider Brewing Company offers something special. With its roots firmly planted in Nebraska’s small-town charm and its eyes set on continued innovation, Kinkaider is a testament to the power of community and creativity in the craft beer world.

 

This blog post is based on a transcript from the Oh My! Omaha podcast episode released on November 11^th, 2024.

The Oh My! Omaha podcast explores all things wonderful in Omaha and nearby communities.

Edited by Grace Dunbar