Lagunitas Brewing Company, based in Petaluma, is set to make a significant move this summer. Heineken International has revealed plans to acquire the remaining stake of Lagunitas, marking a strategic move to boost the craft beer industry globally.

As part of this acquisition, Lagunitas Brewing Company will be closing its brewing, packaging, and restaurant facilities at its Chicago location. An internal letter obtained by ABC7 Chicago confirmed that the closure is scheduled for August 1, with only a small number of employees continuing to work in the warehouse at the current Chicago site.

The company announced that it will be relocating its brewing operations from Chicago to its original brew house in Petaluma, California. This decision will impact 86 employees, some of whom may have the opportunity to work remotely or move to California. Lagunitas is offering retention incentives and support services to assist employees through this transition.

Sam Kennedy, a Lagunitas spokesperson, emphasized the commitment to managing the transition with care and respect for the affected employees. The move is driven by the need to future-proof the organization in response to evolving trends in the craft beverage sector.

By streamlining operations and focusing on innovation and sustainability, Lagunitas aims to enhance its supply chain efficiency. Despite the shift in brewing operations, Chicago remains a key market for Lagunitas, which will continue to serve its customers in the region with its popular IPAs and other brews.

Heineken’s acquisition of Lagunitas in 2017 paved the way for strategic decisions to strengthen the brand’s global presence. Lagunitas, with headquarters in both Chicago and Petaluma, opened its Chicago brewery in 2014, catering to the local market with its unique offerings.

While the Chicago brewery faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, it recently reopened to visitors before the decision to relocate brewing operations to California. This transition underscores Lagunitas’ commitment to adapt to industry changes and drive sustainable practices in brewing.

As this story unfolds, stay tuned for further updates on this development. The move signifies a new chapter for Lagunitas Brewing Company as it navigates changes in the craft beer landscape.