Another popular brewery files Chapter 11 bankruptcy

A downturn in the craft brewery industry in 2024 has carried over to 2025, as several beer companies have filed for bankruptcy protection, and some have closed down operations.

American craft brewers produced 23.1 million barrels of beer in 2024 for a 4% decrease compared to 2023, according to a report from the Brewers Association. The craft beer industry’s share of the beer market volume was flat at 13.3%, the same as in 2023, while the overall beer market declined by 1.2% in volume.

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A worst-case scenario has occurred for Cary, N.C.-based craft brewery Brüeprint Brewing Company, which on April 9 filed for Chapter 7 protection and will likely close down operations and liquidate its assets.

Related: Another popular brewery files Chapter 7 bankruptcy to liquidate

Established in 2014, Brüeprint beer was available on tap at various North Carolina restaurants, and its canned beers could be found at various bottle shops and grocery stores, including Whole Foods, Total Wine & More, Wegmans, Fresh Market, Food Lion, Harris Teeter, Lowe’s Food, and Weaver Street Markets.

Another Cary, N.C.-based brewery, Cotton House Craft Brewers, on April 8 filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its business after facing significant financial strains over the last two years.

Texas craft breweries in financial distress 

Earlier this year, popular Texas-based craft brewer Alamo Beer Company LLC, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Feb. 3 to restructure its debt obligations and continue as a going concern.

The debtor sought to restructure its debt and reorganize its business, as San Antonio’s craft beer industry had been having financial problems.

The city’s craft brewers Weathered Souls Brewing Co. and Busted Sandal Brewing Co. in fall 2024 shut down, and Freetail Brewing Co. ended its beer distribution operations.

Nebraska Brewing Co. files for bankruptcy protection

And now, award-winning beer brand Nebraska Brewing Company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to implement a strategic restructuring, facing uncertain times and economic and supply chain issues, according to a company Facebook post.

Related: Another popular whiskey brand files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

The La Vista, Neb.-based craft brewery filed its Subchapter V petition in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Nebraska on April 28, listing $100,000 to $500,000 in assets and $1 million to $10 million in liabilities.

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Nebraska Brewing Co.’s largest creditors include the Small Business Administration, owed $500,000; NBC Investment Corp., owed over $323,000; and its owners, Paul Kavulak and Kim Kavulak, owed $300,000.

The Kavulaks each own 47.5% equity in the company, according to the petition.

“We have chosen this route because we believe that there absolutely is a path to success and a way for us to continue making your favorite beers and serving our community,” the company said in its Facebook post. “Times are uncertain with economic and supply chain issues, but we don’t plan on going anywhere. To do that, we need your help.

“This restructuring effort allows us to continue operations, including normal taproom hours and regular distribution. Our amazing bar staff will be behind the bar every day to serve up 16 oz. smiles and as always, we would love to share a pint with you,” the post continued. 

“You will still be able to find your favorite Nebraska Brewing Company beers in your favorite grocery stores and bars — that is not going to change. We would love to see your faces in these difficult times as we deal with this new and less-than-fun chapter,” the post said.

Related: Popular beer brands retailer closes locations

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