Kenosha’s Public Brewing Company has closed.
“PUBLIC BREWING COMPANY HAS CLOSED,” reads a pop-up on the brewery’s website. “Thank you to our staff and customers for years of support and dedication.”
The sudden closure comes less than two years after the brewery was sold to Milwaukee-based Lakefront Brewery, and three months after Public Brewing Company announced a new executive chef and menu. Public Brewing Company originally opened in 2012.
A statement posted to the brewery’s social media accounts explains that “in August of 2024, Lakefront Brewery made a serious investment in the community of Kenosha by attempting to revive a beloved local brewery that was on the brink of closure. We saw great potential in Public Brewing Company, but due to an increasing number of industry-related challenges we were unable to maintain stable profitability, and will be closing the brewery and ending production of their brands, effective immediately.”
Here’s the full statement. R.I.P. Public Brewing Company.
In August of 2024, Lakefront Brewery made a serious investment in the community of Kenosha by attempting to revive a beloved local brewery that was on the brink of closure. We saw great potential in Public Brewing Company, but due to an increasing number of industry-related challenges we were unable to maintain stable profitability, and will be closing the brewery and ending production of their brands, effective immediately.
First and foremost, we want to thank all of the hardworking employees that put in an immense effort to bring Public back to life, and it was not without long days and tireless hands that this difficult decision was made. We also want to thank the Kenosha community and downtown businesses that accepted us with open arms. We hope that someone else will have the vision to revive the brewery and historic downtown space. We are open to serious business proposals for the turnkey brewing and restaurant operations and lease of the historic Downtown Kenosha property. All inquiries please contact [email protected].
As with any business closure, timing is never an easy aspect. We’re encouraging all Public employees to apply for summer positions at Lakefront Brewery’s Milwaukee Beer Hall. We are also current in payment with all of Public’s vendors, and will be in contact with any organizers who booked future events at Public, offering full refunds or the option to move the event up to Milwaukee. All Public Brewing Company gift cards may still be redeemed at Lakefront Brewery Beer Hall.
While industries like craft beer continue to see challenges in the trail ahead, we encourage everyone to continue supporting their hometown breweries and small businesses. They need your support now more than ever.
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