Electric Brewing Company in Murrieta, California, has ceased operations after 12 years in business. The brewery announced its sudden closure on social media over the weekend, attributing it to "circumstances outside of our control" that led to a rapid conclusion.
In an Instagram post, the company stated that a potential sale had been in the works for some time, but the finalization occurred sooner than anticipated. While the exact reasons for the abrupt closure were not detailed, the owners expressed a need to "breathe, reset, and enjoy life without the constant struggle of keeping the brewery going."
The brewery, which opened in 2014, was known for its IPAs, stouts, and unique flavor experiments. It also offered retail and wholesale sales of cases and kegs.
Electric Brewing Company indicated that it will retain its name, recipes, branding, and intellectual property, and is considering a future reopening. The space is expected to be occupied by another brewery.
Following the announcement, the company's owners urged patrons not to take branded merchandise, such as glasses, artwork, and signs, from the premises without permission. They noted that items, including a keg used to prop open the front door, had gone missing. The owners appealed to the community to help conclude the brewery's story with shared memories rather than unauthorized removals.
Customers shared their disappointment in the comments of the social media announcement, with many expressing sadness and wishing the owners well. Some noted the brewery's high-quality offerings and the positive community atmosphere it fostered.
The closure of Electric Brewing Company occurs as Stone Brewing, a larger West Coast beer company, prepares for significant layoffs following its sale to Firestone Walker Brewing Company and Duvel Moortgat USA. Stone Brewing plans to lay off 58 workers in late October, with a total of 220 employees expected to be cut across three California locations.
