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Lawson’s Finest Liquids named 'First-Generation Family Enterprise' award-winner

Submitted by tim on
Waitsfield brewery wins prestigious distinction from University of Vermont Grossman School of Business

Vermont Business Magazine Lawson’s Finest Liquids has been named the 2021 First-Generation Family Enterprise Award winner by the University of Vermont Grossman School of Business’ Family Business Institute. Established in 2011, the UVM Family Business Awards honor four local, family-owned businesses annually. Nominees are evaluated on financial success, governance structure, contribution to community or industry, as well as commitments to sustainability and innovation.

Lawson’s Finest Liquids is being recognized amid several initiatives spanning the judging criteria. The company continues to thrive with consistent annual growth and a dedication to cultivating healthy, vibrant communities through their Social Impact Program. Located in the Mad River Valley, Lawson’s Finest Liquids’ brewery and taproom offer the region's finest craft beer and light fare from local producers. A focus on quality across the organization has also been key to the brewery’s success.

“We are so honored to receive this recognition of our family business that supports our employees and delivers world-class beer to our fans,” said Karen Lawson, Co-Owner of Lawson’s Finest Liquids. “We are humbled to be recognized for our Vermont-based business and take great pride in leading with our values.”

The Grossman School of Business’ Family Business Institute also awarded 2021 Family Business Awards across to Healthy Living, Giroux Farms, and H.N. Williams. SEE BELOW.

The Lawson’s family extends a hearty thanks to all the judges and the University of Vermont for this recognition, and a congratulations to every 2021 winner.

To learn more about the UVM Grossman School of Business and the Family Business Institute, click here.

For more information on Lawson’s Finest Liquids, visit www.lawsonsfinest.com.

ABOUT LAWSON’S FINEST LIQUIDS

Based in Waitsfield, Vermont, Lawson’s Finest Liquids produces beers of the highest quality and freshness. Emulating the best of widely appreciated styles, Lawson’s Finest is home to a growing collection of expertly crafted beers, including world-class IPAs and unique maple brews. Founded in 2008 by Sean and Karen Lawson, the company started as a highly acclaimed, small-batch artisanal brewery in Warren, Vermont. In 2014, Lawson’s Finest Liquids added an alternating proprietorship in Stratford, Connecticut, where the brewery produces its flagship Sip of Sunshine and Super Session beers. Lawson’s Finest Liquids opened its destination brewery, taproom, and retail store in Waitsfield in 2018. For more information on Lawson’s Finest Liquids, please visit www.lawsonsfinest.com or follow the brewery on Instagram (@lawsonsfinest) and Facebook (@lawsonsfinestliquids).

10th Annual Family Business Award Winners

Lawson's Finest Liquids
1st Generation Family Enterprise
Video: The Lawson's Story

Giroux’s Poultry/Grains/Orchards
Multi-Gen Family Enterprise

Healthy Living Market
Multi-Gen Family Enterprise

H. N. Williams Store
Vermont Legacy Family Enterprise
Video: The H. N. Williams Story

2022 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

Anyone can nominate, self-nominations are welcome.

Family businesses are a major driver in the world economy. What may start as an idea in a home, with determination and innovation, grows into a business built to last. The University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business recognizes and celebrates first and later generational family owned businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to creating sustainable business through leadership and innovation.

WHO CAN BE NOMINATED:

Family Enterprises in the following categories can be nominated:

  • 1st Gen: Start-up or purchased firms with multiple family members in ownership or operations.
  • Multi-Gen - Family Enterprise that has completed at least one generational transfer within the family.
  • Multi-Gen - Global Enterprise that has completed at least one generational transfer within the family.
  • Vermont Legacy Family Enterprise: Vermont based family business recognized for outstanding and long lasting success..

WHO CAN NOMINATE?

Nominations can be submitted by the company (self-nominations) or by associated parties.

JUDGING CRITERIA

The judging panel will evaluate the nominations and select the winners based on the following criteria:

  • Financial success of the company
  • Governance of the family and the business
  • Contributions to the community and industry
  • Innovative business practices or strategies

2022 JUDGES:

OVER THE YEARS:

1st GENERATION FAMILY ENTERPRISE: Start-up or purchased firm with multiple family members in ownership or operations.

MULTI-GEN FAMILY ENTERPRISE: Family firms that have completed at least one generational transfer within the family.

MULTI-GEN GLOBAL ENTERPRISE: Family firms that have completed at least one generational transfer within the family.

VERMONT LEGACY FAMILY ENTERPRISE: Vermont based family business recognized for outstanding and long lasting success -

Source: Waitsfield, VT. (October 18, 2021) – Lawson’s Finest Liquids. University of Vermont Grossman School of Business’ Family Business Institute, Burlington.