Craft Brewery Acquisition Financing
Fast-Track Growth by Buying an Established Brewery
Acquiring an operational craft brewery offers a shortcut to ownership with many of the startup hurdles already cleared. You gain immediate access to equipment, systems, a trained team, and often, a loyal customer base. High-profile acquisitions like Blue Point’s sale to a major beverage company for nearly $24 million show how established breweries can hold significant value. Craft brewery acquisition financing equips you to capitalize on these opportunities—whether that means sustaining a brand’s legacy or launching the next chapter of its story.
What Influences Acquisition Cost
The cost of acquiring a brewery varies widely based on scale, brand strength, and market positioning. For example, a well-known and widely distributed brewery like Blue Point fetched nearly $24 million at sale, a price reflecting its reach and production footprint. Smaller regional or independent breweries are often listed at valuations aligning with tangible assets—such as equipment, facilities, and inventory—and cash flow at that time. One community example involved a 10-barrel taproom-equipped brewery producing $650,000 in gross revenue, with equipment valued at $250,000 and inventory at $60,000. In such cases, acquisition costs hinge on both physical assets and profitability, so thorough financial due diligence is essential. Financing should reflect asset valuation, future earnings, and your strategic vision for the brand.
Financing Options Tailored for Acquisitions
Multiple financing paths can be structured to support acquisitions:
- SBA 7(a) Loans: Flexible terms tailored for purchasing operating businesses, facilities, and covering working capital.
- SBA 504 Loans: Focus on real estate and large fixed assets, ideal when the property is part of the acquisition.
- Conventional Loans: May offer quicker access for experienced operators with solid credit.
- Seller Financing or Deal Structures: In some cases, existing owners offer deferred payment options or staggered deals to bridge financing gaps.
- Combining financing types—such as SBA’s working capital support with asset-secured conventional funding—can balance risk and flexibility.
Setting the Stage for Long-Term Success
Acquisition isn’t just about taking over; it’s about elevating the brand. With proper financing, you can invest in maintenance, staff development, marketing, facility modernization, and distribution growth. Whether you preserve the brand or reimagine its identity, sound craft brewery acquisition financing helps ensure the transition supports both operational continuity and strategic evolution—positioning the acquired business for sustainable growth.
