Startup to launch farm-to-six-pack movement in Delaware

Delaware farmers might soon be able to wet their beaks in the nation’s booming craft beer industry.

At least that’s the concept behind Proximity Malt.

The Milwaukee-based startup plans to open a processing plant near Laurel by mid-2017 where locally grown barley can be converted into malt specifically for use by craft brewers and other malt users in the Mid-Atlantic region.

“Our goal is to create value for both local farmers interested in growing a premium product and area brewers looking for a local source of raw materials,” spokeswoman Amy Germershausen said. “But ultimately, we want to help create the best tasting beer possible.”