The craft beer industry, once booming, has seen one of its prominent players, World of Beer, file for bankruptcy. The franchise chain, which was founded in 2007, thrived during the peak years of craft beer’s popularity. However, with the recent slowdown in craft beer sales, the company has struggled to maintain its former success. On August 2nd, World of Beer filed for bankruptcy with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division.
In the past year, the chain has closed 14 locations, eight of which were company-owned. Currently, the company has 16 corporate-owned locations and 17 franchised locations still in operation, as detailed in a joint Chapter 11 case management summary. The closures reflect the broader challenges faced by many in the craft beer industry as consumer interest shifts and the market becomes increasingly competitive.
Best U.S. Cities for Beer Lovers in 2024
As summer continues, beer tourism is experiencing a surge, and Tasting Table, a leading food and drink site with a global audience, has identified the best cities in the U.S. for beer enthusiasts in 2024. Their ranking is based on four key metrics: the number of breweries per capita, bars per capita, beer-tasting tours available, and the average cost of a beer.
According to Tasting Table, the top 15 beer cities in the U.S. are:
- Asheville, NC
- Pensacola, FL
- Las Vegas, NV
- Portland, ME
- Greenville, SC
- Lancaster, PA
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Cincinnati, OH
- New Orleans, LA
- Portland, OR
- Denver, CO
- Harrisburg, PA
- Rochester, NY
- St. Louis, MO
- Austin, TX
These cities have been recognized for their vibrant beer cultures, making them top destinations for beer lovers in the year ahead. Whether you’re seeking a rich brewery scene or affordable beer-tasting experiences, these cities offer a range of options for enthusiasts to explore.
Words to Drink By
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking.” – Steve Jobs, American businessman and inventor.
As beer tourism grows and the industry evolves, both businesses and enthusiasts alike are finding new ways to enjoy and celebrate this beloved beverage.
