US – Belgian multinational drink and brewing company, AB InBev, has closed down Platform Beer Co.’s brewery and taprooms in Ohio due to “changing industry and operational challenges.”
AB InBev acquired the Cleveland-based craft brewer, which produced more than 200 different beers annually at its peak in 2019.
Benner and Justin Carson founded the platform Beer Co. in 2014, initially focusing on experimental one-off beers, including IPAs and sours. The brewery later expanded into ciders and hard seltzers.
At the time of its sale to AB InBev, the brewer had four facilities across Ohio, including a Cleveland-based brewhouse, as well as tasting rooms in Columbus and Cincinnati.
The acquisition was a move that quickly expanded the brand’s distribution, but also drew criticism from some.
“As we navigate through the changing industry and operational challenges, it has become clear that Platform’s production and commercial efforts need to be focused on three beers: Haze Jude IPA, Odd Future Imperial IPA, and our new Canalway IPA,” an AB InBev spokesperson said.
“We are grateful to be part of the Ohio beer community and look forward to continuing to provide local beer drinkers with the IPAs they’ve come to love.”
The Michelob Ultra brand owner did not disclose details of where the three beers – Haze Jude IPA, Odd Future Imperial IPA, and Canalway IPA – would be brewed as part of AB InBev’s craft roster.
The closure, as indicated by the spokesperson, will result in an unconfirmed number of layoffs. “Unfortunately, several employees were affected, and we’re working to assist them through this transition. We continue to be thankful for their contributions to Platform during their time here.”
A sign posted on the brewpub by one frustrated man shortly after the closure announcement summed up the business as a “capitalism speed run.” Someone from inside the store promptly removed the sign, News 5 Cleveland reported.
The closure includes Platform brewpubs in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, as well as Cleveland-based Platform sour beer subsidiary Phunkenship.
It follows a round of layoffs at a production facility in Cleveland’s Clark-Fulton neighborhood in August 2022 and a staff walkout at Platform’s Columbus taproom in February 2021 over pay and working conditions.
David Sefcik, who has been part of Platform’s membership club, “The Electric Company,” for several years told local news outlets that Monday, they received the email: ‘Your next Electric Beer is ready for pickup,’ unclear of what had transpired.
“In these instances, the big guy wins and the little guy doesn’t. And that’s what hurts the most because you went in good faith, hoping they’d be there for a full year, and now they’re gone,” he said.
The annual subscription gives members special merchandise, along with a pack of newly released beer from both Platform and Phunkenship, and a year-end dinner celebration.
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