own evolutionary process. And as part of the evolutionary process, they are starting to bring their designs and productions back home. “We are in the midst of a transition to bring all our designs back ‘in-house,’ and have begun building our systems in Mobile, Alabama at our new facility and showroom,” said Robinson. ASD has a number of wellknown distilleries around the country now representing their products. “Most, if not all, the distilleries or distillers that represent ASD and our equipment were customers first,” Robinson explained. “They can give first-hand experience to their transaction, including the good and the bad. They have years of experience not only using the equipment, but producing awardwinning products, consulting for other startups, and generally helping us maintain a quality product.” Each representative for ASD is a valued expert on the team. When distillers reach out to ASD, Robinson says they welcome collaboration and creativity from first contact, telling that “a lot of communication of ideas, wants and needs” are discussed. After a system is decided upon and the order is placed, the equipment is built and communication continues with updates of the process. “Once the system is finished and shipped, installation can be performed by the client in most cases, but we do offer the service to install when needed,” said Robinson. ASD enjoys helping with the installation and in providing on-site training. “We’ve found that those customers that allow us to train them on the system tend to have fewer mistakes and get off the ground quicker than those that go it alone.” Robinson says they treat clients the way they themselves would want to be treated, and offer good warranties and support. They currently have a 30 percent customer return rate for additional

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purchases, and Robinson says it makes him “happy that they trust us enough to come back.” Robinson finds his inspiration anywhere and everywhere, and he is constantly thinking of new ideas: “While most may take a walk in a beautiful park to relax their mind, I drive to an industrial complex area, or hardware store, or anyplace I think can give inspiration to keep my passion alive and well.” With sales doubling in the last year, that passion and vision is paying off. “The industry is growing at an extremely fast pace,” Robinson reflects. He notes that competition and customer demands are increasing. However, he has also noticed that same competition separates those that are only in it for the money from those that are in it because they are passionate about distilling. “Our goal has always been to bring high quality, crafted equipment that is not only affordable, but also beautiful,” Robinson shares. “We make sure our best work is what always leaves our facility. By giving the customer what they expected and a bit more, we feel we are serving the industry well.” With growing success, Robinson and Cage are adding a new facility and employees to their production line. Their goal is to create an area where customers can visit and get to know them and their process. When shopping for a still, Robinson reminds new craft distillers to do their research: “Only caring about the price, by only watching your dollars and cents, can force you to make a decision that seems like the right direction, but often it’s not. Research will help you compare apples to apples, not apples to oranges.” For more info on Artisan Still Design visit www.artisanstilldesign.com or call (251) 308-2484.

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