News Malting industry connects farmers to growing craft beverage supply chain July 9, 2026 By Nicole Heslip Filed Under: Michigan, News Photo by Brownfield's Nicole Heslip. The Great Lakes Malting Company says it’s been working for a decade to shorten the supply chain between farmers and craft beverage producers. Owner Jeff Malkiewicz tells Brownfield the Traverse City company contracts with farmers who can clean and store smaller amounts of grains like wheat, rye, oats, and barley.