Viera, FL – December 27, 2024 – World of Beer at The Avenue Viera will close its doors for good after its scheduled New Year’s Eve celebrations, marking the end of a 15-year presence in the community. The announcement was made by owners Chuck and Maribeth Liska, who shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post.
“We are deeply saddened by this decision,” the Liskas wrote. “Over the years, we’ve met some incredible people—many of whom became part of our WOB family. We’ll always treasure our time here and hope our paths cross again. Thank you to everyone who made WOB Viera such a special place to be.”
A Popular Local Destination
World of Beer Viera became a local favorite for its expansive selection of craft beers—offering more than 500 bottled and draft varieties—and its vibrant atmosphere. Known for its spacious, pet-friendly patio that could accommodate up to 50 guests, the venue also hosted trivia nights and special events. The establishment did not serve food but allowed patrons to enjoy meals from nearby restaurants in a relaxed, community-oriented setting.
The Viera location also gained a reputation for its commitment to giving back to the local community, making it a beloved spot for both casual gatherings and larger social events.
A Struggling Industry
The closure of the Viera location is part of a larger trend affecting the craft beer industry. Founded in Tampa in 2007, World of Beer quickly grew into a national brand with numerous locations. However, the company faced significant financial struggles even before the pandemic, with varying business models among its locations. The pandemic further compounded challenges, forcing temporary closures and leading to the permanent shutdown of some stores, including international locations.
In 2024, World of Beer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing the pandemic’s toll on the business. Despite these setbacks, the brand has begun to recover, with CEO Paul Avery optimistic about the future. “Our emergence from Chapter 11 places WOB on a solid path for long-term success,” he said. “We are committed to serving our loyal customers, supporting our employees, and driving innovation in an ever-competitive market.”
What’s Next for the Space?
The future of the 2,500-square-foot space at 2290 Town Center Ave. remains uncertain. At this time, there has been no announcement regarding what business will take over the location after World of Beer’s closure.
The Decline of Craft Beer Bars
Gregg Wiggins, a longtime World of Beer customer and retired journalist from Indian Harbour Beach, reflected on the broader challenges facing craft beer bars and breweries. “From the 1980s until about 2020, it felt like new breweries were opening every week,” Wiggins recalled. “But the industry has been facing difficulties for some time, with both beer bars and craft breweries closing across Florida and the U.S.”
As World of Beer Viera prepares to close, the future of craft beer bars in the region appears uncertain, as shifting consumer tastes and business challenges continue to reshape the hospitality landscape.
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