Problem
A. When looking at the Grain Forecast what are 2 assumptions we can make about grain supply over the next 12 months?
B. When looking at the Hops Forecast what are 2 assumptions we can make about hop supply in general over the next 12 months?
C. What are the factors that a responsible manager should consider when analyzing the malt/grain market? Noting the market analysis, should the manager expend considerable resources on mitigating risks in malt- or reserve these resources for more volatile markets this season and why?
D. What actions should a responsible manager take to mitigate potential disruptions to hop supply amid current growing conditions?
E. Find and list three alternative commercial suppliers of grain (malt) in Canada.
F. What major factors are affecting German hop production this season?
G. Will the overall cost of manufacturing beer increase, decrease or be level (2%+/-) over the next twelve months? What are the most significant factors leading to price mobility? (Justify your position with cited examples from the market reports)