Berwick Brewing Under New Ownership And Planning To Reopen Soon

The story of Berwick Brewing is getting a fresh chapter, and local craft beer fans have plenty of reasons to celebrate. After closing its doors in July 2025 following the retirement of longtime owner Tom Clark, the historic brewery on West Front Street is making a highly anticipated comeback under the ownership of local family entrepreneurs Megan and Vaughn Welch.

The return of Berwick Brewing represents more than the reopening of a brewery. It signals the revival of one of the most beloved destinations in Columbia County, a brewery known for traditional beer styles, a welcoming atmosphere, outstanding pizza, and deep community roots.

The Welch family’s connection to Berwick Brewing runs deeper than a simple business transaction. Megan Welch previously worked as the brewery’s kitchen manager and had long dreamed of owning the business. That dream became reality when the opportunity and financial resources aligned, allowing the family to purchase the brewery and begin restoring a local favorite.

Grand Reopening Scheduled for July 31

The official Berwick Brewing Grand Reopening is scheduled for July 31, 2026, with festivities running from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the brewery’s iconic location at 328 West Front Street in Berwick. Guests can expect great beer, signature pizzas, family-friendly fun, and an opportunity to experience the beginning of a new era for the brewery.

The reopening is expected to draw longtime patrons, craft beer enthusiasts, and curious visitors eager to see the changes while reconnecting with the brewery’s traditional character.

According to reports, the new ownership team is focused on preserving everything customers loved while carefully introducing new ideas that will ensure long-term success.

The Beers Fans Have Been Waiting For

One of the biggest questions surrounding the brewery’s return has been whether fan-favorite beers would be making a comeback.

The answer is a resounding yes.

Because the brewery is restarting production from the ground up, the initial draft lineup may be somewhat limited. However, the Welch family has confirmed plans to revive many of the brewery’s most popular beers, including:

• Berwick Lager
• Front Street Wheat
• Dry Hop IPA
• Irish Red
• Grumpy Bill’s Porter

These flagship beers helped build Berwick Brewing’s reputation and remain highly sought after by loyal customers throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The brewery has built its reputation on traditional German-style lagers, Czech-inspired pilsners, English ales, and other classic styles that emphasize quality, balance, and drinkability over trends.

Experienced Brewing Leadership Returns

Another major reason for excitement is the return of former head brewer Matt Hallowell.

The Welch family rehired Hallowell to help preserve the quality and consistency that customers expect. In addition, founder Tom Clark will remain involved as an advisor during the transition period, helping ensure that brewing methods, recipes, and standards remain intact.

That continuity is critical for local craft beer lovers who have spent years enjoying Berwick Brewing’s distinctive approach to traditional brewing.

Plans for Events and Community Engagement

Berwick Brewing has historically been more than a brewery. It has been a gathering place for families, friends, local organizations, and visitors.

The spacious facility has hosted:

• Live music events
• Community gatherings
• Seasonal celebrations
• Outdoor biergarten experiences
• Pizza nights
• Fundraisers
• Special beer releases

The new ownership group is expected to continue emphasizing community-focused events that bring people together while strengthening Berwick’s local economy.

The grand reopening itself serves as the first major event under the new ownership structure and sets the stage for a busy calendar of entertainment, food, beer launches, and community activities throughout the year.

Will Berwick Brewing Expand Into Distribution?

While no specific large-scale distribution plans have been formally announced, the immediate focus appears to be rebuilding beer inventory and restoring operations at the brewery.

Given the strong regional reputation of Berwick Lager, Front Street Wheat, and other brewery favorites, expansion into wider local distribution could become a future growth opportunity once production stabilizes.

For now, the emphasis remains on rebuilding the taproom experience, serving customers on-site, and re-establishing the brewery as one of the premier craft beer destinations in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Why This Reopening Matters

The reopening of Berwick Brewing represents a major win for Berwick, Columbia County, and Pennsylvania’s craft beer community.

When the brewery closed in 2025, many feared that one of the region’s most respected brewing operations was gone forever. Instead, a local family stepped forward with a commitment to preserving the brewery’s legacy while creating new opportunities for growth.

By combining experienced brewing talent, local ownership, community support, and proven beer recipes, Berwick Brewing is positioning itself for a successful second chapter.

For longtime fans, July 31 is more than a reopening date. It is the return of a hometown institution that has become part of the fabric of Berwick itself.

About Berwick Brewing:

Berwick Brewing is a historic Pennsylvania craft brewery located at 328 West Front Street in Berwick, Pennsylvania. Recognized as the oldest operating brewery in Columbia and Montour Counties, Berwick Brewing has earned a loyal following through its dedication to traditional brewing methods, exceptional customer service, handcrafted beer, and strong community involvement.

Founded by veteran brewer Tom Clark, Berwick Brewing developed a reputation for producing some of the region’s finest German-style lagers, Czech-style pilsners, English ales, porters, wheat beers, and India pale ales. Rather than chasing every trend in the craft beer industry, the brewery became known for creating balanced, highly drinkable beers that appeal to both longtime beer enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The brewery operates inside a historic 14,000-square-foot building along the Susquehanna River, offering a unique atmosphere that combines industrial architecture, local history, comfortable indoor seating, and outdoor gathering spaces. Visitors have long been drawn to the brewery’s spacious taproom, scenic setting, signature pizzas, rotating beer selection, and welcoming family-friendly environment.

In 2026, Berwick Brewing entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Megan and Vaughn Welch. The local family acquired the brewery with a mission to preserve its celebrated heritage while building for the future. Their commitment includes bringing back fan-favorite beers such as Berwick Lager, Front Street Wheat, Dry Hop IPA, Irish Red, and Grumpy Bill’s Porter while continuing the tradition of quality brewing that made the brewery a regional destination.

A major part of the brewery’s continued success comes from its people. Former head brewer Matt Hallowell returned to help lead brewing operations, while founder Tom Clark has provided advisory support during the transition. This continuity helps ensure that the beer quality, recipes, and customer experience remain true to the brewery’s roots.

Today, Berwick Brewing stands as one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most recognizable craft beer destinations. Known for authentic craft beer, traditional lager brewing, fresh food, community events, and small-town hospitality, Berwick Brewing continues to attract visitors from across Pennsylvania. Whether stopping in for a freshly poured lager, enjoying pizza with friends, attending a community event, or exploring local craft beer culture, guests can experience the tradition and passion that have made Berwick Brewing a local favorite for years.

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