E-Malt.com News article: USA, MN: Bemidji Brewing Co. to expand to a new location by summer 2016

After two successful years at its current facility, Bemidji Brewing Co. announced on August 18 that it plans to renovate and move into another location downtown in 2016, Bemidji Pioneer reported the same day.

According to a press release, Bemidji Brewing, which operates at 401 Beltrami Ave. has planned a three-phase, nine-month project to move the business to 211 America Ave., Bemidji.

During the expansion process, Bemidji Brewing will maintain its current operation and taproom at the existing location.

"After a thorough site-selection process, we are excited to realize this next chapter of Bemidji Brewing," co-founder Bud Kaney said in a release. "It feels great to see things happening after so much planning."

The first phase of the expansion will include preparing the production space and getting the 15-barrel brewhouse running. The company will then build out a 2,000 square-foot taproom and patio for its second phase and incorporate in-house food sales with a small-plate food menu for its third phase.

The company release states the new location offers 6,100 square feet of space and that the 15-barrel brewhouse, along with added fermentation and cooperage space will allow the business to grow from its current maximum output of 450 barrels per year to more than 1,000 barrels in 2016 and increase to 6,000 barrels with expanded space.

"Having the increased brewing capacities and efficiencies will help Bemidji Brewing begin to meet the demand for our craft beer in Bemidji and beyond, and we are excited to see our beer travel to other markets," co-founder Tom Hill said.

Bemidji Brewing spent the last year and a half looking at both existing buildings and land options, but settled on the location on America Avenue Northwest for its ability to accommodate brewing equipment needs.

"Throughout our two years in operation at our current location, we have implemented great programs and we look forward to elevating our taproom experience in 2016," co-founder Megan Hill said in the release.

Bemidji Brewing hopes to have the transition complete by summer 2016.


19 August, 2015