Redemption Rock Brewing announces it's closing December 29th

• Posted by Bars & Bands December 1, 2024 - Filed in News - #Worcester  #Redemption Rock Brewing  #craft beer  #small business  - 13,537 views

  "We've run out of time," brewery writes as stunned community laments

  
  Redemption Rock Brewing will close for good on December 29th (Facebook)

  WORCESTER — Redemption Rock Brewing, a cherished staple of Worcester’s craft beer and community scene, will close its doors on Sunday, December 29th, the brewery announced Saturday in a heartfelt statement.

  The decision comes after nearly 6 years of serving as a “canvas for the community,” where patrons gathered for birthdays, weddings, game nights, and local art showcases. Despite its efforts to grow, the brewery cited financial challenges as the reason for its closure.

  “We simply haven’t been able to grow the business enough to remain open,” the announcement read. “And we’ve run out of time.”

  The brewery was the state first to be certified as a Benefit Corporation, according to Worcester Business Journal, which C.E.O. Dani Babineau "described as 'a for-profit company that uses the power of business to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy,' ” according to W.B.J.

  Redemption Rock used the power of its brand to make a connection to the community with collaborations with such local institutions as the Worcester Bravehearts, The Fix Burger Bar, Hanover Theatre, and Worcester nonprofit Casita Cultura Latina, as well as national brewer Samuel Adams.

  The response to the closing has been overwhelming.

  "I am devastated. I’m so sorry," Ben White wrote on Facebook. "Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and for so many and for making Worcester a better and more welcoming City."

  Cathy Coleman wrote: "I am so sad to hear this. You guys are the one brewery I actually like. Your space is unique. Your vibe is unique. You guys were all about the community. You welcomed everybody without that bro type culture that I find at almost every other brewery. as a lesbian, I felt totally welcome and comfortable there. I don’t always feel that way and other breweries. I loved your community groups. I attended the book groups there. It was a great place to hang out and had a great feel to it. Do you think there’s any chance you might try to open up somewhere else? At some point?"

  "I will forever love the place that Dani, Dan, and Greg built, and its heart will continue to beat in everything I do in the future," Kim Gordon posted. "I love you all, and I am so sorry. In a year of bad news, this takes the cake. Worcester is losing a true gem, and it is a damn shame. Forever grateful to experience Redemption Rock Brewing."

  Since opening, Redemption Rock cultivated a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere, hosting everything from nonprofit fundraisers to collaborations with local food vendors, musicians and artists. The brewery credited its staff and loyal patrons for creating a unique and joyful space.

  Employees are the "heart and soul, our creative engine, and the face of Redemption Rock,” the statement said. They took "our crazy little idea and nurtured it into the loving and comforting place it became.”

  As the final weeks approach, the brewery plans to maintain regular hours and a full slate of events through December 29th. Tips collected during this period will go directly to employees, with the team encouraging patrons to visit for a final toast.

  “Will it get crazy busy here in December? We sure hope so,” the owners added. “And we hope you’ll come celebrate with us, or at least for one last beer.”

  Redemption Rock leaves behind a legacy of creativity and community, one that patrons say will be deeply missed.