Hoppin’ Frog Brewery Announces Leadership Transition and New Ownership
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Editorial Dept.
Hoppin’ Frog Brewery is entering a new chapter with a new ownership structure and leadership transition aimed at supporting its long-term growth. The changes are designed to strengthen the award-winning craft brewery through strategic investment – while maintaining the quality and values that have defined the brand for nearly two decades. The transition also ensures continuity as the company prepares for its next phase of growth.
A press release from Hoppin’ Frog Brewery revealed that as part of the transition, founder Fred Karm will transition into an advisory role while longtime team member Zachary Bastin takes over as president, leading the brewery’s day-to-day operations.
Founded by Fred Karm in 2006, Hoppin’ Frog has grown from a bold idea into one of Ohio’s most recognized craft breweries, earning national and international acclaim for its commitment to quality, creativity, and brewing excellence. As part of this transition, Fred Karm will step back from day-to-day management of the brewery and move into an advisory role, while remaining an active ambassador for the Hoppin’ Frog brand.
In the leadership transition, Zachary Bastin has been named President of Hoppin’ Frog Brewery. Bastin, who has worked alongside Karm for the past 15 years, will oversee the brewery’s day-to-day operations and help guide the company’s strategic direction moving forward.
“Fred took a chance 20 years ago and built Hoppin’ Frog into the respected brand it is today,” said Bastin. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside him for so many years and to learn firsthand what has made this brewery successful. Hoppin’ Frog has always been built on passion, quality, and an amazing team, and I’m excited to help lead the next chapter of the brewery while continuing to build on the foundation Fred created.”
The transition also includes the addition of new ownership partners who will help strengthen Hoppin’ Frog for the future. In addition to providing financial backing, the new ownership group will serve in advisory roles and support strategic investments in the brewery, including equipment and operational improvements designed to increase efficiency and support long-term growth.
Karm will continue to be involved with the brewery in an ambassador capacity. Fans can still expect to see him around the tasting room and at events, continuing to represent the personality and spirit that have long been a part of the Hoppin’ Frog experience.
“This is an exciting new chapter for Hoppin’ Frog,” Bastin added. “We have a strong foundation, an experienced team, and a lot of opportunity in front of us. The people who have helped build Hoppin’ Frog into what it is today will continue to be a major part of where we go next. This transition is about building on the great team we already have and giving them additional support, resources, and investment to help us operate more efficiently and continue growing. I’m incredibly excited about the future of the brewery and what we can accomplish together in the years ahead.”
As Hoppin’ Frog celebrates nearly two decades of brewing, the company remains committed to the quality, innovation, and customer experience that have defined the brand from the beginning. With a strong leadership team, continued involvement from its founder, and additional ownership support to invest in the brewery’s future, Hoppin’ Frog is well positioned for continued success in the years ahead.
About Hoppin’ Frog Brewery
Founded in Akron, Ohio, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery has built a reputation for bold, flavorful, award-winning craft beers and an unwavering commitment to quality. Since opening in 2006, the brewery has earned recognition across the craft beer industry for its innovation, consistency, and world-class beers.
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