Story thread · 2 reports / 2 sources

Is craft beer in decline? Tampa Bay’s brewers share insights

tampabay.com · 3hShare

Is the Gulp Coast drying up? Cycle Brewing, Angry Chair Brewing, Southern Brewing & Winemaking, 3 Keys Brewing, Tampa Bay Brewing Co.’s iconic Ybor City taproom — in the past few years, craft beer lovers have been forced to mourn closures of local staples. Last week, Thirsty Buffalo Brewing Company in Odessa announced it will close its brewery and taproom. “We know what you’re thinking ‘wow, another brewery closing,’” owners Mike and Erin Bishop wrote on Instagram. “The reality is this industry is brutal. Despite months of trying everything, and building a brand supporting both craft beer and non-alcoholic drinks alike, we couldn’t find a path forward due to circumstances out of our control.” Americans are drinking significantly less alcohol than in the past. Gallup polls reported in 2025 that a record-low 54% of American adults are drinking alcohol. “The craft beer industry right now seems to be going in a decline nationwide,” said Thomas Fako, head brewer at Flamingo Bay Brewing Co.,

First report: Beer combo: Fulton buys Bemidji Brewing, launches new company — startribune.com, 1d