July 12 (UPI) — After 127 years of operation, San Francisco’s Anchor Brewing, renowned as the first craft brewery in the United States, is set to permanently close its doors.
The closure was announced by Sapporo USA, which acquired Anchor Brewing in 2017, through a press release. Sapporo USA attributed the closure to the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Anchor Brewing’s sales, particularly in the San Francisco area.
In the press release, Sapporo USA stated, “In spite of implementing various strategies, such as introducing new products, product renovations, and brand investments, Anchor Brewing’s business performance remained below expectations.”
According to the press release, Anchor Brewing’s net sales dropped from $12 million in 2020 to $10 million in 2022. The company experienced losses of $13 million in 2020, $22 million in 2021, and $10 million in 2022.
Sam Singer, a spokesperson for Anchor Brewing, expressed the difficulty of the decision, stating, “Anchor reached this conclusion after extensive evaluation. While we understand the historical significance of Anchor to San Francisco and the craft brewing industry, the combination of the pandemic’s impact, inflation, especially in San Francisco, and fierce market competition left us with no choice but to make this unfortunate decision.”
Singer explained that Anchor Brewing attempted to boost sales by shifting focus to grocery store sales during the pandemic when bars and restaurants were closed. However, these efforts were insufficient to save the brewery, which has been in operation since 1896 and managed to survive the Great Depression.
He added that the closure of Anchor Brewing represents the challenging economic climate affecting the entire country.
Brewing operations have already ceased at the facility, but the company will continue packaging and distributing its remaining beer until the end of the month.
Despite the closure, Anchor Brewing is hopeful of finding a buyer to revive the business under new ownership. In the meantime, the employees have been provided with a 60-day notice of separation.
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