A new Plainfield, Ill., craft brewery will pay it forward to homebrewers by also operating as a retail homebrew equipment and supply store. Chicago Brew Werks creator Brandon Wright was given approval late last week by the Plainfield Village Board to operate his small scale brewery and equipment and supply shop.
The Herald-News reported that Wright will have to agree to certain stipulations. Along with the obvious stipulations of only selling craft beer to 21 year olds for off- and on-site consumption, there were also some unique provisions. From the Herald-News:
The ordinance currently limits patrons to three drinks if they consume beer on premises. Additionally, the volume of craft beer produced on licensed premises cannot exceed 465,000 gallons per year. Also, the licensee cannot provide a sample of or sell craft beer before noon or after 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and before 11 a.m. or after 11 p.m. Friday and Saturdays. The annual fee for a Class T license is $1,875.
Wright plans to stock a wide selection of grains, malt extract, hops, yeast and brewing equipment for the beginner to advanced homebrewer, but he plans to keep a low business profile to preserve the small town nature of Plainfield. The Herald-News stated that Wright plans to close to the public by 9 p.m. and would not operate like a bar with late hours. Some residents view Chicago Brew Werks as the small business it is rather than a bar.
“Since it is so small, I don’t view it as a bar opening in our residential neighborhood,” [said Mary Brodarski of Plainfield]. “This is going to cater to specialized customers who enjoy craft beer.”
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Planner Jonathan Proulx also does not expect the new business to diminish property values in the neighborhood.
Those sentiments speak to the small entrepreneurial nature of the craft brewer who keeps it small, local and responsible. For the full story, check out the Herald-News.
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