Lagunitas Brewing Company in Chicago will cease its brewing, packaging, and restaurant operations this summer, as stated in a letter sent to employees and obtained by ABC7 Chicago on Thursday.
A select few employees will continue working in the warehouse at the 1843 S. Washtenaw Ave. location, as outlined in the letter. The closure is slated for August 1.
According to a news release, the brewery intends to transfer its Chicago brewing operations to Lagunitas' original brewery in Petaluma, California. This decision will impact 86 employees, some of whom may transition to remote roles or relocate to California. Others will receive retention incentives and departure packages, including support services and assistance with job placement.
Sam Kennedy, a Lagunitas spokesperson, emphasized the company's commitment to managing the transition with care and respect for its Chicago-based employees.
The brewery attributed these changes to the necessity of future-proofing the organization amidst evolving trends in the craft beverage industry. The transition aims to streamline the supply chain, enhance flexibility, and foster innovation, with a focus on sustainable brewing practices.
Despite these operational adjustments, Lagunitas reaffirmed its dedication to the Chicago market, ensuring continued service to partner establishments with its range of high-quality brews.
Lagunitas, acquired by Heineken in 2017, maintains headquarters in Chicago's Douglass Park neighborhood and Petaluma, California. The Chicago brewery, inaugurated in 2014, had experienced temporary closures during the COVID-19 pandemic but had recently reopened to visitors.
Please stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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