MoreBeer Vs. AHBS

[Brew-boy]

Ask AHBS, NB or Midwest if you can return a broken item 4 months after you purchased it? I bet they will say no, More beer has stepped up and helped me out by sending me a new one no questions asked. I do agree with the free shipping sometimes it is slow to arrive from Morebeer. I have no problems ordering from any of the major vendors and all have there good qualities.

 

[The Pol]

B3's FREE shipping has a disclaimer... so, I cant really complain about it. I use them almost exclusively because I plan my brews a few weeks in advance. I plan ahead, I save money, 10 day shipping doesnt matter to me. To each thier own.

 

[bkov]

I don't believe I've ever seen Morebeer, Northern Brewer, or Willams Brewing ever give HBT members a special offer or even participate here online. That in itself sets Austin Homebrew apart from the rest.

in all fairness to morebeer and NB, its because they provide a forum like this one for there customers and all other brewers who want to join also.

 

[The Pol]

Ahh, true true... grasshoppa

If I invite you to my home, and you do not come, you cannot talk badly about me for not coming to your home, can you?

 

[EisBerg]

I have only shopped Austin and Midwest so far. I got what I ordered and was pleased with each however Austin was much quicker. I will be purchasing more supplies soon and with Austin's upcoming sale I will probably be shopping there. One request Forrest...a catalog. I am a simple man and love to look at pictures and daydream. Pretty much wore out the midwest catalog now building and buying (if only in my head)!!!!

 

[Austinhomebrew]

Ask AHBS, NB or Midwest if you can return a broken item 4 months after you purchased it? I bet they will say no, More beer has stepped up and helped me out by sending me a new one no questions asked. I do agree with the free shipping sometimes it is slow to arrive from Morebeer. I have no problems ordering from any of the major vendors and all have there good qualities.

Why do you assume that just because B3 did something nice the other stores wouldn't? You are projecting hypothetical situations.

So go ahead and ask me? How much money are you betting?

Go on.

Someone bought a March pump in March. They started having problems and we just replaced it today.

Forrest

 

[Austinhomebrew]

I have only shopped Austin and Midwest so far. I got what I ordered and was pleased with each however Austin was much quicker. I will be purchasing more supplies soon and with Austin's upcoming sale I will probably be shopping there. One request Forrest...a catalog. I am a simple man and love to look at pictures and daydream. Pretty much wore out the midwest catalog now building and buying (if only in my head)!!!!

We are always adding products and lowering prices. By the time the catalog is printed it is out of date.

Forrest

P.S. Can the thread name be changed to Austin Homebrew vs. B3

 

[Brew-boy]

Why do you assume that just because B3 did something nice the other stores wouldn't? You are projecting hypothetical situations.

So go ahead and ask me? How much money are you betting?

Go on.

Someone bought a March pump in March. They started having problems and we just replaced it today.

Forrest

I did have a problem once and the guy on the phone at your place said sorry you had it to long. I am not bashing any of the on line retailers I like them all. When it came time for me to spend $500+ on my conical guess where I spent that money, AHBS.

 

[EdWort]

I know this doesn't help, but Morebeer (more flavor) will be having 15% off everything and some things discounted more tomorrow in their stores. I was there last weekend and learned of it, but don't know if it extends to online, but I doubt it.

That's great, but they could come here and announce it themselves and they could support the members here with some deals, but they have chosen not to so far.

 

[EdWort]

in all fairness to morebeer and NB, its because they provide a forum like this one for there customers and all other brewers who want to join also.

That's a great service for their customers. Morebeer has 5,754 members and 11,222. Homebrewtalk.com has almost 30,000 members.

I cannot understand why they would not want access to such a large group of a target market that so focused on their products and services.

 

[PsicloneRN]

Had an issue with a 40lb bag of grain from Austin Homebrew came with a giant hole in the bag leading me to lose a lot of grain in the box and all over my floor as it was on the bottom where I couldn't see it when I picked it up.

They made it right however I did get a little frustrated feeling like I wasn't being believed on the other end of the phone.

 

[Otis The Drunk]

I have issue with the 40 lb Bag period, We pay a premium price for the grain and end up in the long run being screwed out of a brew session.
That is the only issue I was with AHS though, for my grain I go else where.

 

[Austinhomebrew]

I have issue with the 40 lb Bag period, We pay a premium price for the grain and end up in the long run being screwed out of a brew session.
That is the only issue I was with AHS though, for my grain I go else where.

You need to look at the prices now, they have been lowered. Compare delivered prices. Also, you are paying for 40lbs, you are getting 40lbs. If you need more grain, it is no problem to add it to your order. I tried selling 50lbs at a time and they didn't sell well. I tried a 40lb. bag and the sell really well because of the value.

Forrest

 

[Otis The Drunk]

I understand, I usually order 100 or more pounds at a time.
Do you still charge the $10.00 sur-charge?

 

[Austinhomebrew]

I understand, I usually order 100 or more pounds at a time.
Do you still charge the $10.00 sur-charge?

The shipping charge is $6.99 no matter how much grain you order. Bulk grain qualifies for flat rate shipping. I removed the $10 charge and lowered the price. For example: Maris Otter went down $18. Please do stores a favor and check again before talking about price. These posts last forever.

Forrest

 

[The Pol]

I have to look at bullk grain prices again... I know AHS made a lot of changes, I may need to rethink my purchasing habits.

Well, AHS is certainly competitive with bulk grain prices. The only place that I can find that can beat them is Midwest supplies for delivered price. Midwest would not be cheaper for some, but it is a pretty short delivery from Minn. to Ind.

Rahr 2 Row was 1.375/lb delivered from AHS and 1.34/lb at Midwest
Maris Otter (Crisp) was 1.875/lb delivered from AHS and 1.49/lb at Midwest

AHS would beat Midwest if you were on the west coast... Midwest obviously has a small edge if you are in the center of the country, but the further they ship, the less you save.

B3, though they charge VERY LITTLE for thier bulk grain, has to ship to me clear across the country... and is not competitive at all. For the most part, geography will determine who is cheaper, delivered, when it comes to bulk grains.

Kudos to Forrest for making price adjustments, and nixing the bulk grain surcharge.

Forrest, did you say those FREE shipping coupons would be good indefinately?

EDIT: I never shop at my LHBS because thier NON bulk prices are a little wacky, and thier $4-$5 hops are rediculous. BUT, I can get Rahr 2-Row for $.80/lb in bulk and Maris Otter for $1.24/lb in bulk and pay no shipping. Guess that is where I should go!

 

[Austinhomebrew]

For example for Otis the Drunk:

100lb of Rahr 2row from Northern Brewer to Panhandle TX
$83.98 plus $58.48 shipping is $142.46 or 1.4246 per pound

100lb of Rahr 2row from Midwest Supplies to Panhandle TX
$85.90 plus $55.58 shipping is $141.48 or 1.4148 per pound

100lb of Rahr 2row from MoreBeer to Panhandle TX
$143.00 plus free shipping is $143.00 or 1.43 per pound



120lb of Rahr 2row from Austin Homebrew to Panhandle TX
$143.97 plus $6.99 shipping is $150.96 or 1.258 per pound

Clearly there is a savings for Otis by ordering from Austin Homebrew. The total price of 100 pounds at NB, MW, or B3 will get Otis approx. 113 pounds at Austin Homebrew.

 

[The Pol]

Just realized that my LHBS also has the 7lb Barley Crusher for $120.00... I guess I should drive over there while gas is cheap!

See all that I miss when I write off a store?

Good on ya Forrest on the grain pricing, and like I said, the shipping is what does it.

 

[Otis The Drunk]

Brewers 2-Row Malt Unmilled 40 lb $47.99 AHS
American 2-row (Briess) 50lbs $47.95 Midwest
Rahr 2-Row 50# $41.99 Northern Brewer
2-row Brewers Malt 50# $45.95 High Gravity Homebrew Supply
American Pale (50 lb Sack) $33.00 MoreBeer


Now that I have done my homework, tell me what Kind of deal you are really cutting here?
None of these other establishments have a problem selling 50 lb sacks, why is it so different?
What I see going on here is that you are trying to profit an extra sack out of every 4 sacks you sell.
What I am saying try and sell the 50# sacks and see how many you would sell in todays market....

Forest i have been doing business with you for a number of years, the only thing I am disapointed about are the grain prices. and you guys need to close the gap a little on your mill.

 

[The Pol]

For example for Otis the Drunk:

100lb of Rahr 2row from Northern Brewer to Panhandle TX
$83.98 plus $58.48 shipping is $142.46 or 1.4246 per pound

100lb of Rahr 2row from Midwest Supplies to Panhandle TX
$85.90 plus $55.58 shipping is $141.48 or 1.4148 per pound

100lb of Rahr 2row from MoreBeer to Panhandle TX
$143.00 plus free shipping is $143.00 or 1.43 per pound



120lb of Rahr 2row from Austin Homebrew to Panhandle TX
$143.97 plus $6.99 shipping is $150.96 or 1.258 per pound

Clearly there is a savings for Otis by ordering from Austin Homebrew. The total price of 100 pounds at NB, MW, or B3 will get Otis approx. 113 pounds at Austin Homebrew.

Morebeer will ship 100 pounds of grain, for free?

 

[Austinhomebrew]

Forrest, did you say those FREE shipping coupons would be good indefinately?


They will be good when you use them.

 

[The Pol]

Brewers 2-Row Malt Unmilled 40 lb $47.99 AHS
American 2-row (Briess) 50lbs $47.95 Midwest
Rahr 2-Row 50# $41.99 Northern Brewer
2-row Brewers Malt 50# $45.95 High Gravity Homebrew Supply
American Pale (50 lb Sack) $33.00 MoreBeer


Now that I have done my homework, tell me what Kind of deal you are really cutting here?
None of these other establishments have a problem selling 50 lb sacks, why is it so different?
What I see going on here is that you are trying to profit an extra sack out of every 4 sacks you sell.
What I am saying try and sell the 50# sacks and see how many you would sell in todays market....

Forest i have been doing business with you for a number of years, the only thing I am disapointed about are the grain prices. and you guys need to close the gap a little on your mill.

You are getting flat rate shipping, I presume there may be some cost rolled up into the sack of grain. Bad for you if you live close, but great for the guy in Massachusets who can get 6.99 shipping across the country.

 

[The Pol]

Forrest, did you say those FREE shipping coupons would be good indefinately?


They will be good when you use them.

Thanks bro!

 

[Austinhomebrew]

Brewers 2-Row Malt Unmilled 40 lb $47.99 AHS
American 2-row (Briess) 50lbs $47.95 Midwest
Rahr 2-Row 50# $41.99 Northern Brewer
2-row Brewers Malt 50# $45.95 High Gravity Homebrew Supply
American Pale (50 lb Sack) $33.00 MoreBeer


Now that I have done my homework, tell me what Kind of deal you are really cutting here?
None of these other establishments have a problem selling 50 lb sacks, why is it so different?
What I see going on here is that you are trying to profit an extra sack out of every 4 sacks you sell.
What I am saying try and sell the 50# sacks and see how many you would sell in todays market....

Forest i have been doing business with you for a number of years, the only thing I am disapointed about are the grain prices. and you guys need to close the gap a little on your mill.

Did you receive my message to you?

You are not comparing the real delivered price.

NB, MW, B3 are all about $143 to deliver 100lb. of Rahr 2-row to you. $1.43 per pound
My price for 120 lbs. is $150.96
$1.26 per pound.

Forrest

 

[Austinhomebrew]

You are getting flat rate shipping, I presume there may be some cost rolled up into the sack of grain. Bad for you if you live close, but great for the guy in Massachusets who can get 6.99 shipping across the country.

Why is it bad for him when I am saving him money over just about any homebrew store? Of all his options I have the better price for him. You have to admit that.

Forrest

 

[The Pol]

I think he knows he is getting it delievered cheaper... he is erked because he is paying more for the "grain" than he is elsewhere. He would like your "grain" price to be in line with thiers, AND get flat rate shipping.

I admit it is cheaper... what I mean is that is that they guy on the east coast is getting a better "value", because he is saving about $40 in shipping. Does that make sense?

 

[Otis The Drunk]

Yes I did, and in a way I do save some money.
But When I brew every weekend that extra 10 lbs per sack is needed.
out of 50 batches I have done this year (I have 5 adults living in my house) there would be 10 of them I would have done for close to free had I gotten 50# sacks.

I see your point here Forest, but I think that you fail to see mine.

From High Gravity homebrew Supply my shipping is only $25.00 because they are only 6 hours away from me.

 

[Austinhomebrew]

I think he knows he is getting it delievered cheaper... he is erked because he is paying more for the "grain" than he is elsewhere. He would like your "grain" price to be in line with thiers, AND get flat rate shipping.

I admit it is cheaper... what I mean is that is that they guy on the east coast is getting a better "value", because he is saving about $40 in shipping. Does that make sense?

The total price for the grain including shipping (what really matters when comparing prices) is cheaper than any of his options. He is saving at least 16 cents a pound. The price is in line. It is better thatn in line if it saves him money. It is a better value to someone in Texas as well as the east or west coast.

Forrest

 

[Austinhomebrew]

Yes I did, and in a way I do save some money.
But When I brew every weekend that extra 10 lbs per sack is needed.
out of 50 batches I have done this year there would be 10 of them I would have done for close to free had I gotten 50# sacks.

I see your point here Forest, but I think that you fail to see mine.

So you don't want a cheaper price per pound you just want 50 pound increments? I thought price was what everyone is talking about.

The 40 pound boxes ship better than the 50 pound bags. Looking at sales numbers the 40pound option is extremely popular.

Forrest

 

[The Pol]

I guess what I am saying is this... it costs more than 6.99 to ship #40 of grain to Mass.

You are running a business, not a charity.

Therefore logic would dictate that some of the cost of shipping that grain has been added back into the #40 of grain.

If I come into your store and buy that #40 of grain, I am also paying for that shipping cost that is rolled into it, even though it isnt being shipped.

The guy in Mass. is getting a great price all the way around, because you have flat rate shipping, and what shipping cost there is rolled into the cost of the #40 sack of grain is not enough to eat up his savings in shipping, making it more of a value.

Say you add $10 to the cost of the #40 sack of grain to offset the fact that you only charge 6.99 to ship it. If I come into your store to buy the sack, I am still paying that $10, not a good "value" if you will.

The guy in Mass. is essentially paying that $10 that is rolled into the cost of the sack of grain, plus 6.99... so 16.99 over the cost of the grain itself... which is a great value seeing as though regular shipping would be $50.

Morebeer doesnt offer FREE shipping... that cost is spread throughout thier products as a mark up... they arent a charity either, logic dictates that they arent paying for my shipping, they are making it up elsewhere.

The trick is finding the shop with a combination of the lowest shipping cost and cost for goods. Generally different shops will be better on price on hops, grain, equipment... etc. No one has the best price and shipping on ALL items.

Delivered price IS what matters, so again, AHS delivered prices are extremely competitive on buk grain to my ZIP. The only way I can save an appreciable ammount is to go 10 miles to my LHBS and pick up a sack... and that isnt really a fair comparison.