YAH Brew and Cartel Brewing and Blending have teamed up on the newly acquired space in Middletown – the old Tattered Flag location at 1 S Union St, Middletown, PA 17057. (See our recent article about YAH Brewing acquiring the Tattered Flag space.) (Or the Tower Investments press release on it here – YAH Brew Preser.) Cartel Brewing and Blending has also made expansion growth of their own, by announcing their second location – The Safe House – coming to Manheim, PA, opening in late Fall / Winter of 2025.

Cartel Brewing and YAH Brew team up over the Tattered Flag location in Middletown

Cartel Brewing and Blending’s Social Media Announcement

The announcement came via Cartel Brewing and Blending’s social media earlier today:

FUN ANNOUNCEMENT:

For the last few months, we’ve been working on a pretty rad joint venture project with our friends at YAH Brew…

We are stoked to announce that we have the keys and begun the next stage of bringing this amazing space back to life in Middletown, PA!

We will launch a multifaceted community space that will allow us to use the brewery for both of our brands as well as our collaborative new brand and taproom. We also plan to create a cooperative production facility for other breweries to share and expand their brewing and canning needs and foresee a distillery brand arising in 2026….

All in all, we can’t be more excited about this project and partnering with Justin and Aimee from YAH Brew. More details to follow in the coming weeks…..

– Cartel Brewing and Blending Facebook Post

YAH Brew and Cartel Brewing and Blending Team Up

Trump, Tariffs, and Beer

In a move sending shockwaves through the craft brewing world, President Donald Trump has announced plans to double tariffs on aluminum and steel from 25% to 50%, effective Wednesday, June 4. While the legal basis for this increase rests on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows tariff hikes for reasons of national security, the real-world impact is poised to hit one of the most iconic and homegrown American industries: craft beer.

Aluminum and the Lifeblood of Cans

Aluminum cans are no longer just the realm of mass-market lagers. Today, approximately 76% of all U.S. packaged beer is sold in aluminum cans, according to the Brewers Association. That number is even higher among newer and mobile-friendly breweries who prefer cans for their portability, recyclability, and faster chilling times.

The challenge? Much of the raw aluminum used in U.S. can production is imported, particularly from Canada, even though the final rolling and manufacturing of cans often happens domestically. With the proposed increase in aluminum tariffs, brewers could soon face a steep hike in canning costs.

(See our article: Tariffs and Taps: How Trump’s Trade Policies Would Impact Craft Breweries)

What Is the Midwest Premium?

The “Midwest Premium” is the benchmark pricing metric for aluminum in the U.S. and has already seen notable spikes following the tariff announcement. As of June 2025:

• The Midwest Premium is hovering around 32 cents per pound, up from 26 cents in early May.

• That increase translates into several cents more per can, which may sound small — but for breweries producing tens of thousands of cases, the extra costs can stack up fast.

Steel Tariffs and the Price of Brewing

While aluminum affects packaging, steel tariffs hit the brewhouse. Most stainless steel kegs used by American breweries come from Europe — particularly Germany, Italy, and the Czech Republic — and brewing equipment is frequently sourced from China and the EU.

With tariffs on steel doubling, breweries looking to expand, replace aging tanks, or even just keep up with maintenance are looking at some painful math. Some estimated impacts:

• New fermenter or brite tank costs could jump by 15–30%.

• Imported kegs could rise from $120 to over $160 per unit.

• Shipping container delays and tariffs could extend wait times on equipment by months.

(See our article: Trouble Brewing: How Trump’s Liberation Day Tariffs Are Impacting Craft Beer)

A Delicate Balance for Small and Independent Breweries

Unlike global macrobreweries, most of the 9,500+ small and independent breweries in the United States operate on tight margins and rely on a complex supply chain. With slim profit windows and rising labor, ingredient, and utility costs, another shock to the system — like spiking materials tariffs — could spell disaster for the most vulnerable producers.

“We source American-made cans, but the aluminum still comes from Canada. This kind of increase puts a big dent in our already-tight packaging budget,” says one Pennsylvania-based brewery owner. “We’re not sure if we’ll need to raise prices, shrink can sizes, or move to bottles. None of those are ideal.”

Domestic Production: A Long-Term Solution?

The Brewers Association has expressed hope that tariff pressure might eventually lead to increased domestic production of steel kegs and brewing equipment. But that shift won’t happen overnight. It requires:

• New factories outfitted for food-grade steel.

• Specialized labor trained in beverage equipment.

• Incentives or subsidies to compete with cheaper foreign alternatives.

Until that infrastructure is in place — likely years from now — brewers will continue to rely heavily on imports.

(See our article: When Canada Attacked Yuengling!)

Could There Be a Reprieve?

There’s still uncertainty. President Trump has delayed or reversed some recent tariffs after backlash. But there’s no guarantee this time. That means:

• Breweries should immediately consult with suppliers to understand cost impacts.

• Strategic changes, like buying in bulk or diversifying suppliers, may soften the blow.

• Advocacy groups like the Brewers Association are actively lobbying for exemptions or policy reversals.

The Bigger Picture: Craft Beer in an Uncertain Economy

With inflation still looming, interest rates high, and operating costs climbing across the board, this tariff announcement adds another pressure point to an already-stressed industry.

Craft beer sales dipped slightly in 2024, with the Brewers Association reporting a 2% decline in volume, though dollar sales remained relatively flat due to price adjustments. But if input costs rise sharply, consumers could soon see higher six-pack prices, or worse, a thinning out of local options as small breweries fold under economic strain.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed and Support Local

Craft beer isn’t just an industry — it’s a culture, a movement, and a community. Whether you’re a brewer, a beer drinker, or a retailer, now is the time to stay informed and support local.

We at The Beer Thrillers will continue monitoring these tariff changes and their impact on our beloved beer scene. Expect updates, interviews, and breakdowns in the weeks to come.

🍻 Have thoughts on the tariff hikes? Are you a brewer affected by these changes? Drop us a comment below or reach out — we’d love to share your story.

Sources:

• Brewers Association: 2024 Industry Review

• U.S. Department of Commerce – Section 232 Investigations

• Aluminum Association Reports

• Trading Economics: Midwest Premium Aluminum Price Data

• Washington Post (Instagram Collection)
• WallStreetLogyc (Instagram Reel)

See Our Related Articles

• Tariffs and Taps: How Trump’s Trade Policies Would Impact Craft Breweries
• Trouble Brewing: How Trump’s Liberation Day Tariffs Are Impacting Craft Beer
• When Canada Attacked Yuengling!

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server).

We also now have a SLACK channel – which acts as a hybrid chat room, message board, Reddit style; workspace and posting area for us. You can hang out with us there and chat about all kinds of things – not just beer, but “off topic” things like movies, TV, books, podcasts, hiking, sports, and more! Join us at: The Beer Thrillers on SLACK.

We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written. The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of May 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

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If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

The craft beer industry, long celebrated for its creativity and community-driven ethos, is facing a new challenge in 2025: President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs. These sweeping trade measures, including a universal 10% tariff on imports and targeted levies of up to 25% on steel, aluminum, and goods from Canada and Mexico, have sent shockwaves through the brewing world. For an industry already grappling with shifting consumer preferences and post-pandemic recovery, the tariffs could reshape the landscape of American craft beer. (See our previous article – Trump’s Tariffs, posted November 2024.)

Trump’s Tariffs and How They Might Impact Craft Brewing

The Tariffs Explained

President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs aim to protect domestic industries by imposing broad import taxes. However, their impact on craft brewing is particularly severe due to the industry’s reliance on imported materials:

• Aluminum Cans: A 25% tariff on imported aluminum directly affects breweries that use cans for packaging. Nearly all cans used by U.S. brewers are sourced internationally, making this tariff a major cost driver

• Steel Kegs: Most steel kegs used in American breweries are manufactured in Germany. The 25% tariff on finished steel products raises keg prices significantly

• Key Ingredients: Canadian barley and malt—essential for many craft beer recipes—are now subject to tariffs. Similarly, fruits like raspberries sourced from Mexico face increased costs

These tariffs come at a time when imports of beer and brewing materials are substantial. In 2024 alone, beer imports to the U.S. totaled $7.5 billion, with Mexico accounting for $6.3 billion of that figure. The ripple effects of these measures are being felt across the supply chain.

Economic Impact on Craft Brewers

The financial strain imposed by these tariffs is already apparent:

1. Rising Costs:

   • Breweries like Port City Brewing in Virginia report that their pilsner malt from Canada—essential to their recipes—is subject to a 25% tariff. Founder Bill Butcher estimates this could raise the price of a six-pack from $12.99 to $18.99

   • Monument City Brewing in Baltimore predicts similar price hikes for their beers due to increased costs for aluminum cans and imported barley

• Profit Margins Under Pressure:

  • Small breweries often operate with tight margins, leaving little room to absorb cost increases. Decisions such as passing costs onto consumers or cutting profitability are becoming unavoidable

  • Some brewers are stockpiling cans or switching packaging methods (e.g., painted cans instead of shrink-wrapped sleeves) to mitigate immediate impacts

• Export Challenges:

  • Canada, the largest foreign market for U.S. craft beer (accounting for 38% of exports), has retaliated with its own tariffs on American goods. Canadian consumers are boycotting U.S. beers, leading importers to cancel order.

  • 

    An Instagram post by Pints and Panels about Tariffs and Alcohol (courtesy of Em Sauter, of Pints and Panels)

Pennsylvania’s Brewing Scene: A Case Study

Pennsylvania has one of the largest craft brewing industries in the U.S., with over 400 breweries contributing significantly to local economies and communities. The state’s brewers are uniquely vulnerable to these tariffs due to their reliance on imported materials.

1. Material Costs:

   • Breweries in Pennsylvania often use imported aluminum cans and Canadian malt, both subject to tariffs. These cost increases could force smaller brewers to raise prices or reduce offerings.

2. Competitive Pressure:

   • Larger breweries like Molson Coors, which source materials domestically, may weather the tariffs better than smaller operations reliant on international supply chain.  Pennsylvania’s independent brewers must innovate or risk losing market share.

• Community Impact:

  • With higher beer prices looming, consumers may opt for cheaper alternatives like hard seltzers or cocktails—a trend already encroaching on craft beer sales. This could hurt local breweries that rely heavily on loyal customer bases.

Broader Industry Challenges

The Liberation Day tariffs exacerbate existing issues within the craft beer sector:

• Changing Consumer Preferences: Millennials and Gen Z are drinking less beer overall, favoring hard seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails instead

• Post-Pandemic Recovery: Many brewpubs are still struggling to rebound from COVID-19 closures and reduced foot traffic

• Market Saturation: The number of breweries in the U.S. has grown rapidly over the past decade, leading to fierce competition for shelf space and consumer attention

A fun meme about Trump’s Liberation Day Tariffs and IPAs

What Lies Ahead?

Craft brewers are exploring strategies to adapt:

• Localization: Emphasizing local ingredients and branding could help breweries differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

• Innovation: Experimenting with new packaging methods or alternative ingredients may mitigate some tariff-related costs.

• Advocacy: Industry groups like the Brewers Association are lobbying for clarity on tariff rules and potential exemptions for critical brewing materials

For Pennsylvania’s brewers—and craft beer makers nationwide—the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether they can weather this storm or whether these tariffs will fundamentally alter the industry.

Conclusion

Trump’s Liberation Day tariffs have introduced unprecedented challenges for America’s craft beer industry, threatening its affordability and accessibility while squeezing small businesses already operating on razor-thin margins. As brewers grapple with rising costs and shifting consumer dynamics, their resilience will be tested like never before.

For beer lovers across the country—and especially in Pennsylvania—the question remains: How much are we willing to pay for our favorite pint?

There is definitely a lot more to all of this, and it will be unfolding. The Brewer’s Association covered much of this here: Trump Administration Slapping 25% Tariffs on Canned Beer Imports and Empty Can Imports from Across the Globe.

From Perplexity

The “Liberation Day” tariffs announced by President Trump, which include a universal 10% tariff on all imports and additional targeted tariffs on specific goods and countries, are expected to have significant implications for the U.S. craft brewing industry, particularly in states like Pennsylvania.

Impact on Craft Brewing Industry

• Increased Material Costs:

  • The tariffs include a 25% levy on imported steel and aluminum, which are critical for the production of cans and kegs used by breweries. Many craft brewers rely on aluminum cans and steel kegs imported from countries like Germany, meaning these tariffs will raise production costs significantly

• • Breweries that source ingredients such as barley, malt, or fruits from countries subject to reciprocal tariffs (e.g., Mexico) will face higher expenses, further straining their budgets

• Market Challenges:

  • With rising costs, some breweries may reduce their product offerings or shift packaging strategies, such as moving away from aluminum cans altogether. This could limit consumer choices and hurt smaller breweries that lack the resources to adapt quickly

  • Export markets for U.S. beer may also shrink due to retaliatory tariffs from other nations, particularly Canada, which is a major importer of American craft beer. Losing access to this market could be devastating for breweries in Pennsylvania that rely on exports

• Consumer Sentiment:

  • Economic uncertainty stemming from these tariffs may lead to reduced consumer spending on discretionary items like craft beer. This is especially concerning as the industry is already facing challenges from shifting consumer preferences toward hard seltzers and cocktails.

Final Thoughts

The brewing industry is already in trouble, I don’t want to say ‘dire straits’, but it is getting there. Breweries are closing somewhat regularly (some recent examples: Butler Brew Works, IMBib, Bucket Brigade, Gateway, and Little Mutants). The ever growing costs of doing business, let alone a business with so many different and varying costs – such as restaurant costs, brewing costs, distribution costs, etc, etc, etc. The brewing business is also heavily regulated in all aspects, which also have costs. All of these are major factors. Add this to a declining market, and as we’ve been saying “the bubble has definitely burst” on the craft brewing industry. This almost feels like a death knell to many. And I think is why we saw an increase of closures in the past months, in anticipation of it all. With the next generation of drinkers not completely on board with the craft beer industry, the older and tiring out generation settling for hop water, non alcoholics, and other form of alcohols, the industry is certainly shrinking.

One hopes this won’t be a final nail, the coffin being closed. But unfortunately we can’t do anything but ride it out, and find out, and see what time shows us.

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of April 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

VK Brewing is expanding and growing, entering a partnership with The Golf Zone in Honey Brook, PA. The Golf Zone is listed as a ‘family fun center’, with their brief info being: “The Golf Zone is a “fun center” perfect for any age! We offer a Grass Tee Driving Range, Indoor Practice Facility, Go Karting, Mini Golf & lots more!” Located at 1839 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook, PA 19344.

VK Brewing is located at 693 Lincoln Hwy E, Exton, PA 19341 in the Historical Ship Inn.

See these VK Articles:

• VK Brewing Officially Opens at the Historic Ship Inn
• VK Brewing Celebrates Their First Anniversary

VK Brewing Is Expanding with the VK Brewing Fairway Taphouse

VK Brewing is Expanding with Partnership with The Golf Zone

As their post reads:

We are so excited to announce our expanded partnership with The Golf Zone in Honey Brook, PA to announce the opening of VK Brewing Co’s Fairway Taphouse! Coming March 2025

Follow along to stay updated for our official grand opening!

Web: www.vkbrewing.com/fairway-taphouse

FB: VK Brewing Fairway Taphouse

IG: instagram.com/vkfairwaytaphouse

VK Brewing – Facebook Post

For More Information on VK Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

VK Brewing is a brewpub and micro brewery from Exton, PA. They have 27 unique beers and over 2,700 ratings, with a global average rating of 3.68 (as of 1.10.25). Their Untappd description reads: “VK Brewing Co. & Eatery is a veteran-owned brewery, taproom, and restaurant located at the historic Ship Inn building in Exton, PA. We are committed to making great drinks and great food so you can have a great time! ”

You can follow them at these social media platforms:

• VK Brewing – Official Website
• VK Brewing – Facebook
• VK Brewing – Instagram
• VK Brewing – Twitter
• VK Brewing – Untappd

Four Seasons Brewing, out of Latrobe (greater Pittsburgh area) Pennsylvania, is currently closed. They first made a post on their social media (Facebook Post) yesterday at 2:01 PM just stating “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the pub will be closed today. We’ll see you tomorrow! ” But now today, just about an hour ago they posted again, stating that they will be closed for an unforeseen while with no reopening date planned.

Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub Announcement on Facebook

Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub Closed Due to Forces Outside of Their Control

As of right now, we don’t have a lot of information, but it seems like the closure might be for a little while. Today at 11:13 AM they posted the following to their social media accounts:

As we’re sure most of you have heard, the brewery is closed until further notice. We do not have a reopen date, but will be sure to update once we do.

This decision was completely out of our control and we hope to have everything resolved quickly. Thanks to all of you for your continuous support over the years. We’ll see you soon

– Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Facebook Post

• Unity Brewing
• City Brewing Company LLC

Is it a license issue?

It doesn’t seem to be a brewery’s license issue. When we looked it up on the PLCB site we found this:

Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub’s Brewery License

So it would appear that they currently have their brewer’s license up and set until the end of 2025. (Typically brewery licenses are yearly and run calendar year, January 1st to December 31st.)

As we find out more we will keep everyone posted here on the blog.

More Information on Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub

The following comes via Untappd.

• Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Official Website
• Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Facebook
• Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Twitter
• Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Instagram
• Four Seasons Brewing Company and Pub – Untappd

In a story that’s sending ripples through Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene, Sly Fox Brewing, a well-known name with a strong local following, has been ordered to pay nearly $200,000 in back wages, damages, and penalties. This decision comes after an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) found the brewery in violation of federal wage laws.

Let’s dive into what happened, why it matters, and what it says about supporting fair practices in the restaurant and craft beer industry.

Sly Fox Brewing Company logo

What Happened at Sly Fox Brewing?

The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division discovered that two Sly Fox locations in Pittsburgh—the Taphouse at Point State Park (300 Liberty Avenue) and the Highline Brewery (46 S. 4th Street) — violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Specifically, they allowed managers to participate in the tip pool, a clear no-go under federal law.

For restaurant and brewery workers who rely on tips as a vital part of their income, this is more than just a policy violation—it’s a significant financial hit.

The Breakdown of Penalties:

• Back wages recovered: $84,710
• Liquidated damages: $84,710
• Civil penalties: $15,435

In total, the brewery was required to pay $184,855 to rectify the situation.

Why This Matters

Craft beer is a community-driven industry, built on passion, creativity, and collaboration. But like any business, it must also adhere to fair labor practices.

“Restaurant workers often make low wages and depend on every dollar earned, including tips, to help support themselves and their families,” said John DuMont, the Wage and Hour District Director in Pittsburgh. His sentiment highlights the importance of respecting the hardworking people behind the scenes.

Whether you’re pouring pints, running food, or cleaning up after hours, every role contributes to the experience we beer lovers enjoy. Ensuring fair wages and proper treatment is essential for a thriving industry.

What Does This Mean for the Craft Beer Community?

For craft beer enthusiasts and brewery owners alike, this story serves as a wake-up call. It’s a reminder to support breweries that not only produce great beer but also take care of their employees.

For Brewery Owners:

If you’re running or thinking about starting a brewery, this is a clear signal to get your labor practices in order. The craft beer community values transparency and fairness, and maintaining these values is crucial to building a loyal customer base.

For Beer Lovers:

Next time you visit a brewery or restaurant, consider the people making it all happen. From your bartender to the back-of-house staff, everyone deserves fair pay for their hard work.

About Sly Fox

Sly Fox Brewing Company is a Pennsylvania craft beer staple, founded in 1995, and known for its bold flavors and innovative approach to brewing. With locations spanning the state, including the renowned Taphouse at Point State Park and the Highline Brewery in Pittsburgh, Sly Fox has built a reputation for quality beers that cater to a wide range of palates. From their flagship Pikeland Pils to seasonal favorites like Christmas Ale, the brewery offers a mix of traditional styles and creative brews that keep customers coming back. Over the years, Sly Fox has become a go-to destination for beer lovers and a key player in the local craft beer community.

Beyond its beers, Sly Fox is deeply rooted in Pennsylvania’s culture. Their involvement in events like the Sly Fox Bock Fest & Goat Race showcases their passion for creating experiences that bring people together. This blend of creativity and community engagement has helped the brewery maintain its popularity, even in a competitive craft beer landscape. However, recent labor-related controversies remind us that every business has room for growth and improvement. As Sly Fox continues to evolve, many hope it will prioritize not only great beer but also the well-being of its dedicated staff.

A Message to Other Employers

The Department of Labor isn’t taking violations lightly. “This legal action recovers the workers’ hard-earned wages and sends a message to other restaurant employers that violations come at a cost,” said Samantha N. Thomas, the Philadelphia Regional Solicitor of Labor.

The case against Sly Fox Brewing reinforces the importance of following labor laws and ensuring that tipped workers receive their full earnings.

Wrapping Up

While Sly Fox Brewing is known for its craft beer, this situation casts a shadow over the brand’s reputation. It’s a reminder that success in the craft beer world isn’t just about the product; it’s about the people.

As craft beer fans, we can use this moment to celebrate and support breweries that prioritize fairness and community. Let’s raise a glass to good beer—and to doing the right thing.

Have thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments below or share your favorite employee-focused breweries.

For More Information on Sly Fox Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Sly Fox Brewing Company is a regional brewery from Pottstown, PA. They have 514 unique beers and over 484,000 ratings with a global average rating of 3.56 (as of 11.27.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Sly Fox Brewing Company is headquartered in Pottstown, Pennsylvania with a 50-hectoliter production brewery and tasting room at 331 Circle of Progress. The Pottstown brewery location opened in January 2012 and Sly Fox beers are currently available in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey. Sly Fox is considered to be one of the most well-respected craft brewers in the Mid-Atlantic region. The company was founded in December 1995 by the Giannopoulos family when Peter Giannopoulos opened the Sly Fox Brewhouse & Eatery in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Sly Fox now has six pub locations: Phoenixville, Pottstown, Malvern, Wyomissing, and two pubs in Pittsburgh.”

You can follow them at these social media platforms:

• Sly Fox Brewing – Official Website
• Sly Fox Brewing – Facebook
• Sly Fox Brewing – Instagram
• Sly Fox Brewing – Twitter
• Sly Fox Brewing – Untappd

Blind Cat Beer Co.

Blind Cat Beer Co, located in Pittston PA, will be hosting their grand opening this Saturday and Sunday – November 23rd and November 24th, 2024. The brewery will be located at 13 Kennedy St, Pittston, PA 18640. The brand new brewery considers itself “NEPA’s first Earth-friendly brewery and taproom located on Main St in Pittston PA.” (as per their Facebook page).

With a series of pictures posted to their Facebook along with their announcement, they outlined what will be going on this weekend for their grand opening.

Announcement:

Opening weekend hours and answers to all of the questions we’ve been getting asked! See you all so soon!

Blind Cat Beer Co. – Facebook Post

The announcement and information on Blind Cat Beer Co’s grand opening.

As per their announcement photos – they won’t be having food, but will partnering with their neighboring pizza joint – Althea; they are family friend as well as pet friendly; they will have beer to go – four packs; and no – Cricket won’t be the brewery cat, but will be the mascot.

Their operating hours for the grand opening will be:

• Saturday – November 23rd: 12 – 9 PM
• Sunday – November 24th: 12 – 6 PM

For More Information on Blind Cat Beer Co.

The following comes via Untappd.

Blind Cat Beer Co. is a nano brewery from Pittston, PA. They have 10 unique beers with 10 ratings (so no available global rating yet – as of 11.17.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Earth-friendly and community driven brewery in Pittston, PA.”

You can follow them at the following social media platforms:

• Blind Cat Beer Co. – Facebook
• Blind Cat Beer Co. – Instagram
• Blind Cat Beer Co. – Untappd

Tree House Brewing Co., the juggernaut of craft beer with a fiercely loyal fanbase, is about to shake up the Boston craft beer scene in a big way. Known for its hazy IPAs, luscious stouts, and now spirits, the Massachusetts-based brewery is planning a two-story taproom and brewery in the heart of Boston. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new chapter for Tree House—and why Boston beer lovers should be thrilled.

Tree House Brewing Company

From Curbside to Full Service at the Prudential Center

Tree House is moving beyond its current curbside pickup setup on Huntington Avenue at the Prudential Center. The new expansion will feature a full-service taproom, kitchen, and brewery. This isn’t just about enjoying Tree House beer on-site; the plan also includes serving their distilled spirits—marking a new dimension to the Tree House experience.

The details? Tree House’s proposed two-story, 35,000-square-foot space will include:

• First Floor: Brewing and distilling operations, storage space, and a commercial sales area.
• Second Floor: A sleek on-premise consumption area with seating for 121 guests, restrooms, and additional storage.
• Outdoor Patio: A perfect spot to enjoy a pint with views of the bustling Prudential Center area.

The Prudential Center is located at 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199.

A Glimpse at Tree House Brewing’s Growth

Tree House Brewing has come a long way from its original Charlton roots. With six operational locations across New England, including breweries in Monson, Deerfield, and Sandwich, Massachusetts, as well as a Farm Fermentory in Woodstock, Connecticut, and even a golf course taproom in Tewksbury, this brewery is a force to be reckoned with.

Their Saratoga Springs, New York, location is still under construction, but the Boston expansion signals their commitment to bringing their fan-favorite brews—and growing spirits program—closer to urban craft beer enthusiasts.

The company currently has five locations: Charlton, South Deerfield, Sandwich, Tewksbury and Woodstock, Connecticut, with Saratoga Springs under construction. The Saratoga Springs location is Tree House’s first location outside of New England and second outside of Massachusetts.

Why This Expansion Matters

Tree House isn’t just a brewery; it’s an experience. The brand has built its reputation as the largest direct-to-consumer on-premises brewer in the U.S., drawing more than 1 million visitors annually. Their move to Boston represents more than just a physical expansion—it’s about meeting their fans where they are while staying true to their ethos of delivering exceptional quality.

For Boston craft beer lovers, this means access to fresh Tree House beer and spirits without the road trip. And for the uninitiated, it’s a golden opportunity to discover why this brewery has such a cult following.

What’s Next for Tree House?

This isn’t Tree House’s first foray into Boston—their summer beer garden at the Prudential was a hit. Now, with a permanent space in the works, it’s clear Tree House is here to stay.

While the opening date hasn’t been confirmed, one thing is certain: this new location is poised to become a must-visit for craft beer fans in Boston and beyond.

For more information on their future plans, you can check out Tree House Brewing’s official website where they discuss that: Future Plans.

Final Thoughts

Tree House Brewing Co.’s Boston expansion is big news for the local craft beer community. With its signature beers, growing spirits line, and a prime location, this taproom promises to be an instant hit. Whether you’re a seasoned Tree House devotee or a first-time visitor, keep an eye on this space—it’s set to be a game-changer.

Have you visited any Tree House locations? What’s your go-to Tree House beer? Drop a comment and let’s talk craft beer! Cheers!

Some Articles We’ve Written About Tree House Brewing Company

• Tree House Brewing Company Announces the Hottest Beer of 2023 – Jalagreeño
• Tree House Opening a Saratoga Springs Location
• Tree House Brewing Releases Woodstock Pilsner
• Tree House Brewing Releases Woodstock DIPA
• Tree House Brewing Releasing Woodstock IPA, Haze, and Julius Cans
• Tree House Brewing Releases Plow Hero
• Tree House Brewing Co. Sets Its Sights on Boston Expansion

Beer Reviews We’ve Done

Looking for some beer reviews of Tree House Brewing Company that we’ve covered? Then check these out:

• Beer Review: Intemperance (Tree House Brewing Company)
• Beer Review: Doppelgänger (Tree House Brewing Company)
• Beer Review: Julius (Tree House Brewing Company)
• Beer Review: Haze (Tree House Brewing Company)
• Beer Review: Autumn (Tree House Brewing Company)
• Beer Review: Sap (Tree House Brewing Company)

Other Related Articles

• The Top Ten Craft Breweries That Brewed the Most New Beers in the Year 2022
• The Top Ten Craft Beers with the Most Five Star Ratings of 2022

More Information on Tree House Brewing Company

The following information comes from Untappd.

Tree House Brewing Company is considered one of the best breweries in the country (United States). They are a bucket list brewery and a “must visit” for many people. Untappd has them listed as a regional brewery from Charlton Massachusetts. They have 1533 unique beers with over 5 Million ratings. They have a global average rating of 4.33 (as of 11.16.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Tree House Brewing Company brews a vast array of ales. The offerings vary based on the season, our moods, and innovations discovered in the midst of day in and day out brewing. Our artisan brewery knows no bounds and we are driven by an intense curiosity of ingredients and how they blend together to create something special.”

For more information on Tree House Brewing Company, check out their social media pages:

• Tree House Brewing Company (Untappd)
• Tree House Brewing Company (Official Website)
• Tree House Brewing Company (Instagram)
• Tree House Brewing Company (Twitter)
• Tree House Brewing Company (Facebook)

Sign of the Horse (Hanover) Sustained some Fire Damage (photo courtesy of Sign of the Horse brewery)

Sign of the Horse Brewery in Hanover Sustained Fire Damage

Last night, Sign of the Horse Brewery, in Hanover PA sustained fire damage. Luckily everyone is safe, accounted for, and healthy, but the building itself has sustained damage. Located at 979 York St, Hanover, PA 17331 the brewery had a fire last night (November 12th, 2024) sometime before 10 PM.

They posted the following announcement to Facebook:

Important Notice

Earlier this evening, Sign of the Horse Brewery in Hanover sustained damage from a fire. Thankfully, no employees or guests were injured.

We’re incredibly grateful to the first responders who arrived quickly and acted with such courage to ensure everyone’s safety. Your dedication means everything to us and our community.

Comedy Night with Kricket Comedy on the 15th is still happening! We’re working on securing a new venue and will provide updates as soon as possible.

Thank you to all our patrons for your patience, understanding, and support. We can’t wait to welcome you back soon and will keep you updated along the way!

#SignOfTheHorse #ThankYouFirstResponders #ComedyNight #CommunitySupport #StayTuned

– Sign of the Horse Brewery (Hanover) – Facebook Post

For More Articles on Sign of the Horse Brewery

You can check out our previous articles on Sign of the Horse Brewery here:

• Sign of the Horse Brewery Announces Closure of Zeichen des Pferdes and Re – Branding
• Sign of the Horse Brewery Expanding – Taking Over the Old Miscreation Brewing Building
• Sign of the Horse Bierhaus is Closing
• Sign of the Horse Brewery Bought Stony Run Brew House

For More Information on Sign of the Horse Brewery

The following comes via Untappd.

Sign of the Horse Brewery is a micro brewery from Hanover, PA. They have 193 unique beers and over 19,200 ratings and a global average rating of 3.76 (as of 11.13.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Sign of the Horse Brewing is Hanover’s premier Brewery of craft beer. We honor the great history of Hanover through our name and through our brewing. Stop by today to see all that we have to offer.”

You can find them at the following social media platforms:

• Sign of the Horse Brewery – Official Website
• Sign of the Horse Brewery – Facebook
• Sign of the Horse Brewery – Instagram
• Sign of the Horse Brewery – Untappd

As craft beer enthusiasts, we often focus on the latest hop varieties or innovative brewing techniques. However, there’s a less palatable topic brewing in the background that’s affecting our favorite local breweries: tariffs. Let’s dive into how Donald Trump’s trade policies have been shaking up the craft beer world.

Trump’s Tariffs and How They Might Impact Craft Brewing

Aluminum Woes: More Than Just a Can of Trouble

Remember when cans were the hot new thing in craft beer? Well, they still are, but they’re causing headaches for brewers. Trump’s 10% tariff on aluminum has hit the industry hard. It’s not just a drop in the bucket – the Beer Institute estimated a whopping $347 million tax increase on the beer industry due to these tariffs. Take Oskar Blues, for example. This Colorado-based craft brewery pioneer estimated the tariff would cost them an extra $400,000 per year. That’s a lot of potential new brews or taproom upgrades going down the drain!

Squeezing Profits Like a Dry-Hopped IPA

Craft breweries operate on tight margins as it is. With these added costs, they’re feeling the squeeze:

• Many breweries are struggling to pass on these costs to beer lovers (that’s us!).
• Some are having to rethink their growth plans or even consider job cuts.
• Competing with big beer is becoming even tougher, as the giants can more easily absorb these costs.

What’s on Tap for the Future?

As we look ahead, the future for craft breweries under these policies remains uncertain:

• If Trump were to be re-elected, we might see these tariffs stick around or even increase.
• Breweries might have to get creative with cost-cutting, potentially affecting the quality or variety of our favorite brews.
• The industry’s impressive job creation streak could slow down.

Bottom Line: It’s Not All Foam and Games

While we love to focus on the fun side of craft beer, it’s crucial to understand the challenges our local brewers face. These tariffs have effectively canceled out some of the tax benefits craft breweries were enjoying, creating a bitter economic brew. So, the next time you’re sipping on your favorite local IPA or stout, remember the complex world behind that delicious beverage. And maybe, just maybe, consider supporting your local craft breweries a little extra – they might need it more than ever. Cheers to hoping for clearer skies (and cheaper cans) for our craft beer community!

How Trump’s Trade Policies Are Impacting Craft Breweries

(Information, extrapolated using economists, analysts, and Donald Trump’s first term. All information is sourced and cited at the end of the article.)

Donald Trump’s tariffs have had significant implications for craft breweries in the United States:

Impact on Costs

The 10% tariff on aluminum imposed by the Trump administration has directly affected craft breweries’ production costs.

This is particularly impactful because:

• Many craft breweries have increasingly turned to aluminum cans for packaging their beer
• Aluminum is a major input cost for brewers, with cans accounting for a significant portion of packaging

The Beer Institute estimated that the aluminum tariffs resulted in a $347 million tax increase on the beer industry.

Effects on Business Operations

The tariffs have put strain on craft breweries in several ways:

• Reduced profit margins, as breweries often struggle to pass on increased costs to consumers
• Potential job losses across the beer industry
• Limitations on growth and investment in local communities

For example, Oskar Blues brewery estimated the tariff would cost their business an additional $400,000 per year.

Long-term Concerns

Craft brewers face ongoing challenges due to the tariffs:

• Difficulty competing with larger beer brands that can more easily absorb cost increases
• Potential need to cut costs in other areas, such as labor or ingredients
• Concerns about the industry’s ability to continue growing and creating jobs

Future Outlook

If Trump were to be re-elected, craft breweries could expect:

• Continuation or potential increase of existing tariffs on aluminum and steel
• Possible new tariffs that could further impact production costs

The tariffs have effectively negated some of the benefits craft breweries received from tax relief measures, creating a challenging economic environment for the industry.

Sources

• Craft breweries fear Trump’s tariffs will doom the boom (2018)
• How Will Trump’s Tariffs Impact Local Craft Brewers? (2018)
• President Trump’s Aluminum Tariff Would Harm Beer Industry, Stakeholders Say (2018)
• Tariffs and the Industry: Impacts of the Trade War on Wine, Beer & Spirits (Jan. 6th, 2020)
• Issues for craft breweries to watch under another Trump administration (2024)
• How would Trump’s tariffs impact large food & beverage firms? And what about USCMA? (2024)
• What Will Trump’s Tariffs Mean for Businesses? (2024)
• Donald Trump’s Tariffs Would Hit His Own Businesses (2024)
• Trump tariffs threaten billions in British exports (2024)
• Why Economists Hate Donald Trump’s Tariff Plan (2024)

See Also

• Exploring Ultra Right’s Limited Edition Conservative Dad’s Beer
• Debates to play a major role in Pennsylvania’s 2024 US Senate election – Republican Rally at The Beerded Goat
• Sticker Mule Makes Controversial Social Media Post
• Craft Beer and Election Day: Sipping Democracy in 2024

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