Quick Overview
- 1#1: Ekos - Comprehensive cloud-based brewery ERP managing production planning, inventory, fermentation tracking, sales, and regulatory compliance.
- 2#2: OrchestratedBEER - End-to-end brewery management software handling recipes, batch production, packaging, quality control, and distribution.
- 3#3: The Five - Modern platform for brewery operations including production scheduling, inventory management, and sales integration.
- 4#4: BrewPlanner - Advanced production planning and scheduling tool optimized for craft breweries to forecast demand and manage resources.
- 5#5: Brewer's Workbench - Real-time shop floor control software for monitoring brewery production processes, equipment, and batch execution.
- 6#6: Flexsuite - Integrated ERP system for breweries covering production, quality assurance, traceability, and financials.
- 7#7: Vicinity Software - Batch manufacturing software for blending recipes, production execution, and inventory in beverage industries like brewing.
- 8#8: BatchMaster - Recipe-based ERP for process manufacturing including brewery production, formula management, and compliance reporting.
- 9#9: aEB - Digital solutions for brewery production, laboratory analysis, quality control, and process optimization.
- 10#10: ProcessPro - ERP software for process industries like brewing, supporting production, inventory, and lot traceability.
These tools were selected based on a rigorous assessment of feature depth (comprehensive vs. specialized capabilities), user-centric design (intuitive interfaces, training support), and performance reliability (data accuracy, uptime), with value for money and scalability as key differentiators.
Comparison Table
Explore a breakdown of top brewery production software tools, including Ekos, OrchestratedBEER, The Five, BrewPlanner, Brewer's Workbench, and more, to understand their unique strengths. This comparison table helps identify the right fit for your operations by outlining key features, use cases, and differentiators, whether you’re a small craft brewery or a growing production facility.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ekos Comprehensive cloud-based brewery ERP managing production planning, inventory, fermentation tracking, sales, and regulatory compliance. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | OrchestratedBEER End-to-end brewery management software handling recipes, batch production, packaging, quality control, and distribution. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | The Five Modern platform for brewery operations including production scheduling, inventory management, and sales integration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | BrewPlanner Advanced production planning and scheduling tool optimized for craft breweries to forecast demand and manage resources. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Brewer's Workbench Real-time shop floor control software for monitoring brewery production processes, equipment, and batch execution. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 6 | Flexsuite Integrated ERP system for breweries covering production, quality assurance, traceability, and financials. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Vicinity Software Batch manufacturing software for blending recipes, production execution, and inventory in beverage industries like brewing. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 8 | BatchMaster Recipe-based ERP for process manufacturing including brewery production, formula management, and compliance reporting. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | aEB Digital solutions for brewery production, laboratory analysis, quality control, and process optimization. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | ProcessPro ERP software for process industries like brewing, supporting production, inventory, and lot traceability. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based brewery ERP managing production planning, inventory, fermentation tracking, sales, and regulatory compliance.
End-to-end brewery management software handling recipes, batch production, packaging, quality control, and distribution.
Modern platform for brewery operations including production scheduling, inventory management, and sales integration.
Advanced production planning and scheduling tool optimized for craft breweries to forecast demand and manage resources.
Real-time shop floor control software for monitoring brewery production processes, equipment, and batch execution.
Integrated ERP system for breweries covering production, quality assurance, traceability, and financials.
Batch manufacturing software for blending recipes, production execution, and inventory in beverage industries like brewing.
Recipe-based ERP for process manufacturing including brewery production, formula management, and compliance reporting.
Digital solutions for brewery production, laboratory analysis, quality control, and process optimization.
ERP software for process industries like brewing, supporting production, inventory, and lot traceability.
Ekos
specializedComprehensive cloud-based brewery ERP managing production planning, inventory, fermentation tracking, sales, and regulatory compliance.
End-to-end production traceability from grain-to-glass with automated batch tracking, yield analysis, and real-time fermentation adjustments
Ekos is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform tailored for craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries, managing everything from recipe formulation and production scheduling to inventory tracking, fermentation monitoring, packaging, sales, and financials. It provides real-time visibility into operations, ensuring compliance with TTB reporting and seamless integrations with tools like QuickBooks and POS systems. Designed to scale with growing operations, Ekos eliminates silos by unifying brewery production with business management in one intuitive system.
Pros
- All-in-one ERP covering production, inventory, sales, and accounting reduces tool fragmentation
- Real-time dashboards and mobile app enable on-floor decision-making and remote access
- Advanced analytics, forecasting, and automated compliance reporting drive efficiency
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may strain very small breweries
- Steep initial learning curve and setup for complex operations
- Occasional integration glitches reported during software updates
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise-level craft breweries seeking a scalable, integrated solution for production planning, inventory, and full business operations.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes based on production volume; typically $500–$2,500+/month including implementation fees.
OrchestratedBEER
specializedEnd-to-end brewery management software handling recipes, batch production, packaging, quality control, and distribution.
Dynamic orchestration engine that automatically reschedules production tanks, fermenters, and packaging lines based on real-time constraints and priorities
OrchestratedBEER is a cloud-based brewery production management platform that orchestrates the entire brewing process from recipe formulation and scheduling to fermentation tracking, inventory control, and packaging. It provides real-time visibility into operations, predictive analytics for demand forecasting, and seamless integrations with accounting, ERP, and lab systems. Designed for efficiency, it minimizes waste and maximizes throughput for craft and production breweries alike.
Pros
- Intelligent production scheduling with drag-and-drop interface and real-time adjustments
- Comprehensive inventory and traceability features compliant with TTB regulations
- Strong integrations with popular brewery tools like Ekos, BrewPlanner, and QuickBooks
Cons
- Initial setup and data migration can be time-intensive for larger operations
- Advanced analytics require some training to fully leverage
- Pricing may be steep for very small nano-breweries
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries and scaling production facilities seeking robust, scalable orchestration of complex brewing schedules and supply chains.
Pricing
Starts at $499/month for core production module (up to 5,000 bbl/year), with tiers scaling to $1,999+/month for enterprise features; custom quotes available.
The Five
specializedModern platform for brewery operations including production scheduling, inventory management, and sales integration.
Advanced production planning with AI-driven forecasting that links sales data directly to brewing schedules
The Five (thefive.co) is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for craft breweries, streamlining production from recipe management and scheduling to fermentation tracking, inventory control, and packaging. It integrates brewery operations with sales, CRM, and accounting for end-to-end visibility. Designed for scalability, it supports growing breweries with real-time data and mobile access to optimize efficiency and reduce waste.
Pros
- Comprehensive production tools including batch tracking and yield analytics
- Strong integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
- Real-time inventory management with automated reorder alerts
Cons
- Higher pricing tier may deter very small operations
- Initial setup requires data migration effort
- Custom reporting options could be more flexible
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries seeking an integrated ERP to manage production alongside sales and inventory without multiple tools.
Pricing
Starts at $299/month for core production features, with tiers up to $999+/month based on volume and add-ons; custom enterprise pricing available.
BrewPlanner
specializedAdvanced production planning and scheduling tool optimized for craft breweries to forecast demand and manage resources.
AI-assisted tank scheduling that automatically resolves conflicts and optimizes fermentation timelines
BrewPlanner is a specialized brewery production software that focuses on streamlining production planning, scheduling, inventory management, and fermentation tracking for craft breweries. It enables users to create detailed recipes, forecast demand, optimize tank usage, and monitor batch progress in real-time to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. The platform supports scaling from small nano-breweries to larger operations with customizable workflows and reporting.
Pros
- Powerful drag-and-drop scheduling for tanks and production lines
- Real-time inventory and fermentation monitoring with mobile access
- Accurate demand forecasting and recipe scaling tools
Cons
- Limited native integrations with accounting or POS systems
- Steeper learning curve for advanced forecasting features
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume breweries
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries needing advanced production scheduling and optimization without full ERP complexity.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $399/month for small breweries (under 5,000 barrels/year), with custom enterprise plans scaling by production volume.
Brewer's Workbench
specializedReal-time shop floor control software for monitoring brewery production processes, equipment, and batch execution.
Visual drag-and-drop tank scheduler that optimizes fermentation and packaging schedules in real-time
Brewer's Workbench is a cloud-based brewery production software designed to manage core operations for craft breweries, including tank scheduling, batch tracking, inventory management, and packaging workflows. It provides tools for recipe scaling, production planning, and real-time visibility into brewery operations to minimize downtime and waste. The platform emphasizes simplicity and integrates with popular accounting software like QuickBooks for seamless financial tracking.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop tank scheduler for efficient production planning
- Robust inventory and batch tracking with lot traceability
- Excellent customer support and quick implementation
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to enterprise solutions
- No native mobile app, relying on web access
- Reporting features lack advanced customization options
Best For
Small to mid-sized craft breweries seeking an affordable, user-friendly tool for daily production management without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for up to 5 tanks, scaling to $499+/month for larger operations; includes a free trial and no long-term contracts.
Flexsuite
enterpriseIntegrated ERP system for breweries covering production, quality assurance, traceability, and financials.
Advanced tank scheduling and fermentation monitoring with automated alerts and predictive analytics
Flexsuite is an all-in-one brewery management platform tailored for craft breweries, offering end-to-end control over production, inventory, sales, and compliance. It excels in recipe formulation, batch tracking, fermentation monitoring, and automated reporting to optimize operations and reduce waste. The cloud-based system integrates with accounting software, POS systems, and lab equipment for seamless scalability.
Pros
- Comprehensive production planning and scheduling tools
- Real-time inventory and tank management
- Robust TTB compliance and label generation
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for small breweries
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Growing mid-sized craft breweries seeking a scalable ERP solution for production efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at $500-$1,000/month depending on brewery size, users, and modules selected.
Vicinity Software
enterpriseBatch manufacturing software for blending recipes, production execution, and inventory in beverage industries like brewing.
Digital batch ticketing with real-time scale integration for error-free production execution
Vicinity Software is a manufacturing ERP platform designed for formula-based producers, including breweries, focusing on recipe management, batch production, and inventory control. It enables precise scaling of recipes, tracks fermentation and packaging processes, and ensures full traceability for compliance. The system integrates with scales, labels, and accounting software to streamline brewery operations from planning to shipping.
Pros
- Robust recipe scaling and batch management for precise production
- Strong inventory tracking and traceability for regulatory compliance
- Seamless integrations with scales, printers, and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to ERP complexity
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Less tailored to brewery-specific workflows like advanced fermentation monitoring
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries scaling production and needing formula-based manufacturing controls.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $500/month for basic setups, scaling with users, modules, and customizations.
BatchMaster
enterpriseRecipe-based ERP for process manufacturing including brewery production, formula management, and compliance reporting.
Advanced Real-Time Formula Management for dynamic recipe adjustments during production
BatchMaster is a comprehensive ERP solution tailored for process manufacturers, including breweries, providing robust tools for recipe formulation, batch production scheduling, inventory management, and lot traceability. It excels in handling complex brewing processes like fermentation monitoring, packaging, and quality control while integrating seamlessly with financial and compliance modules. Ideal for scaling operations, it supports real-time production adjustments and regulatory reporting essential for beverage production.
Pros
- Powerful recipe and formula management for precise batch control
- Excellent lot traceability and compliance tools for regulatory needs
- Scalable integration with accounting and supply chain modules
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive ERP functionality
- Higher implementation costs and customization requirements
- Less intuitive for small craft breweries compared to niche tools
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise breweries seeking a full ERP suite for integrated production, inventory, and financial management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $50,000+ for initial implementation with ongoing subscription or maintenance fees.
aEB
specializedDigital solutions for brewery production, laboratory analysis, quality control, and process optimization.
Integrated laboratory information management system (LIMS) for seamless quality analysis and real-time process adjustments
aEB (from aeb-group.com) is an enterprise-grade brewery production software suite designed for comprehensive management of brewing processes, including recipe formulation, batch production, fermentation control, and quality assurance. It provides end-to-end traceability, laboratory integration, and compliance tools tailored for the beverage industry. The platform excels in automating production workflows and integrating with on-premise hardware for real-time monitoring and data analysis.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end production and traceability features
- Strong integration with lab instruments and automation
- Industry-specific compliance and quality control tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation costs unsuitable for small breweries
- Limited flexibility for custom workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large scale breweries requiring enterprise-level production management and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request, typically starting at €50,000+ annually depending on scale and modules.
ProcessPro
enterpriseERP software for process industries like brewing, supporting production, inventory, and lot traceability.
Integrated formula management with automatic scaling and yield tracking for precise batch production
ProcessPro is a robust ERP software designed for process manufacturers, including breweries, offering modules for production planning, inventory management, quality control, and financial integration. It supports batch production, recipe formulation, and real-time tracking, making it suitable for scaling operations. While not exclusively brewery-focused, it provides comprehensive tools adaptable to fermentation, packaging, and compliance needs. However, it requires significant customization for industry-specific brewery workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive ERP suite with production, inventory, and financials integration
- Strong recipe and batch management for complex formulations
- Scalable real-time data capture and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for non-ERP experts
- Lacks native brewery features like tank scheduling or TTB reporting
- High implementation costs and customization needs
Best For
Mid-to-large breweries needing a full ERP beyond basic production software.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically involves $20,000+ upfront implementation plus annual subscriptions starting at $5,000-$15,000 depending on users and modules.
Conclusion
As the review of top brewery production software nears its end, Ekos emerges as the clear top choice, providing a robust cloud-based ERP that seamlessly manages production planning, inventory, fermentation tracking, sales, and regulatory compliance. OrchestratedBEER follows with its end-to-end focus, handling everything from recipes to distribution, while The Five rounds out the top three with its modern approach to scheduling and sales integration. Each tool offers unique strengths, but all deliver meaningful value in streamlining brewery operations.
Ready to elevate your brewery’s efficiency? Start with Ekos—its comprehensive features make it the ultimate investment to optimize every stage of production and beyond.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison