The year 2023 marks the impressive anniversary of the 100th meeting of MEBAK, an organization that has played a significant role in the brewing and beverage industry since its founding in April 1971. A young member took the opportunity to speak to one of the honorary members, Dr. Gerd Bender, who has been active in MEBAK since 1991. Here is an overview of MEBAK's eventful history as part of a personal retrospective.
Dr. Gerd Bender talks about the year he joined in March 1991, when MEBAK was meeting in Vienna. His personal decision was influenced by a vacant position in the German Brewers' Association (DBB), which had two members in MEBAK at the time, and his desire to play an active role in committees. The initiative for membership came from the DBB, and the willingness to get personally involved led to a direct commitment without formal admission processes. Without the support of Karlsberg Brauerei GmbH, Homburg, which was generous in every respect, it would not have been possible, reports Dr. Bender. And even in this day and age, it should not be forgotten that the members of MEBAK are active in the MEBAK committees on a voluntary basis. However, this cooperation would not be possible without the obliging support of the companies and institutes.
MEBAK has developed steadily since its early days. The biennial meetings were and still are strongly characterized by personal exchange and a family atmosphere. MEBAK developed into a community in which the "Du" quickly found its way in and an open, approachable image was cultivated. The founding phase and the time that followed were not without humor and unexpected events. Discussions about purity laws, modern and traditional brewing methods and even the naming of crates, boxes and barrels underline the variety of topics that MEBAK has dealt with over the years, in addition to the many analytical and technical brewing issues. Dr. Gerd Bender agrees that consumers should always be at the forefront – in line with MEBAK, which has always seen its role as serving the brewing and beverage industry.
This unique mixture of professional exchange and personal connection is certainly still at the heart of MEBAK today and is one of its defining characteristics. The family atmosphere within the association has been preserved over the years. The founding members and subsequent generations have worked together on projects, mastered challenges and celebrated successes. The introduction of MEBAK-Online initiated the transition from books to digital resources. The financing and implementation of online platforms were challenges that were overcome thanks to the commitment of members such as Dr. Gerd Bender and Dipl.-Ing. Matthias Hansen. Cohesion goes beyond the purely technical aspects and is reflected in personal relationships.
However, it cannot be overlooked that the framework conditions have changed over time. The increasing pressure in the private and professional spheres poses an increasing challenge for many members. Job commitments and growing demands in the private sphere leave less room for volunteering. This trend reflects the general development in the world of work, where time constraints and high demands are the order of the day. Despite these challenges, MEBAK remains an institution where members value the importance of networking and collaboration. Volunteering continues to be perceived as an opportunity not only to share knowledge, but also to actively shape the future of brewing science. The appreciation for the personal stories shared during meetings and the continued cultivation of community are fundamental elements that will endure into the future.
The commitment of the founding members has made MEBAK what it is today. Over the years, the association has developed into a community that not only promotes professional exchange, but also strengthens personal relationships. The founding members' visions for MEBAK, such as expansion into international realms, have been partially realized, while MEBAK continues to advocate for modern, practical brewing analysis methods.
In the last 100 meetings – 101 meetings at the time of writing – MEBAK has undertaken an impressive journey through the world of science and analytics. The intergenerational exchange, the knowledge of the "older" and the new wind of the "younger" make MEBAK what it is. By constantly adapting to technological advances, fostering community and professional exchange, MEBAK has made a significant contribution to the brewing and beverage industry. The biggest challenge today is to manage the constant change in the industry and to position MEBAK as a hub for innovation and networking. Looking back on the 100th meeting, the community remains ready to face the challenges ahead.
With this personal review, MEBAK would like to thank all its friends and supporters, without whose help and great support MEBAK would not be possible. With this in mind, MEBAK wishes everyone happy holidays and a good start to 2024!
