Foursquare for Beer: The Evolution of Untappd in the World of Craft Beer

In 2010, Tim Mather and Gregory Avola co-founded Untappd, an online platform dedicated to connecting beer enthusiasts with their favorite brews. Over the past decade, Untappd has revolutionized the way craft beer is discovered, shared, and consumed. As a pioneer in the digital beer community, Untappd's impact on the industry is undeniable.

The rise of Untappd coincided with the growing popularity of craft beer, which led to an explosion of new breweries and beers hitting the market. The platform provided a centralized space for users to rate, review, and share their beer experiences. This not only helped consumers discover new brews but also gave breweries valuable feedback on their products.

However, Untappd's rating system has faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that it fosters 'ticker culture,' where ratings are based more on hype than actual taste or quality. This can lead to biased and baseless reviews, often favoring popular or trendy beers over hidden gems. Moreover, some breweries have been hurt by unfair ratings, which can negatively impact their reputation.

Despite these challenges, Untappd has played a significant role in facilitating a wider-reaching community in beer. The platform has helped users find new brews they may not have otherwise discovered, and has given breweries the opportunity to reach a broader audience. In 2016, software developer Next Glass acquired Untappd, followed by the purchase of Beer Advocate in 2020. This move stirred up conversations about Untappd's impact on beer culture.

Recently, Gregory Avola announced his departure as chief creative officer of Untappd after a decade at the helm. Avola will remain with Next Glass as an executive advisor, and his legacy continues to shape the direction of the company. The future of Untappd remains bright, as it continues to adapt to the evolving needs of the craft beer industry.

In conclusion, Untappd has come a long way since its inception in 2010. While challenges remain, the platform's impact on the world of craft beer cannot be overstated. As the digital landscape continues to shape the way we consume and interact with beer, it will be fascinating to see how Untappd evolves and adapts to meet the changing needs of the industry.

Untappd website