IPA brews up top business honors
(Photo courtesy GREATER SANDPOINT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE) The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has named Idaho Pour Authority as its latest Business of the Month. Pictured, from left, are Ricci Witte, Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce membership specialist; Vicki Reich and Jon Hagadone, owners of IPA.
SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce would like to extend congratulations to Idaho Pour Authority as its Business of the Month.
Vicki Reich and Jon Hagadone opened Idaho Pour Authority in May 2013 to offer Sandpoint a wider selection of craft beer from all corners of the globe. It was Hagadone’s inspiration to quit his job of 21 years and open IPA. With a modest selection of charcuterie, a friendly and knowledgeable staff, and a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere, IPA has become a downtown staple.
Jon and Vicki’s passion for beer shines through both their selection and staff. They now have over 20 ciders in stock, with ever-changing weekly and seasonal craft beer selections.
Soon after opening IPA was transformed into more of a pub, adding tables, expanding their hours to six days a week and closing at 8 p.m. and hosting live, local musicians on Friday and Saturday nights.
Their fundraising efforts began in September 2013 when they teamed up with Ninkasi Brewing to host “Pints for a Cause” where $1 from each pint sold goes to a local charity of IPA’s choosing. Once word got out, local non-profits began to approach them about hosting their fundraisers and they quickly went from once a month to two or three per month.
When asked about IPA’s community involvement Jon responded, “We realize that if you want to grow your business in a small community you need to give back as well as receive and you can’t do that without caring about your customers and the people in your town.”
To learn about Idaho Pour Authority, call 208-597-7096, find them at 203 Cedar St. in Sandpoint, or follow them on Facebook or find them online at idahopourauthority.com.