USA, MI: Farmington Brewing Company to expand operations just 16 months after debut

Just 16 months after its debut on Grand River Avenue, the Farmington Brewing Company needs more space to keep the taps flowing and the mugs full, Hometownlife.com reported on March 13.

Owners of the popular brewery in downtown Farmington are planning to expand operations about a mile south, to a rented space on Nine Mile Road. On March 7, the Farmington City Council gave its OK for a liquor license so they can brew there, as required by the Liquor Control Commission.

“It’s a good sign we picked the right area to start this project. We’ve wildly exceeded our ability to produce enough beer,” said Jason Schlaff, who owns the brewery with his dad, Gary Schlaff, and friend, Jason Hendricks.

The three business partners recently leased a suite at the Noonan Electric building, located just east of Farmington Road.

The new space will be for production, storage and distribution, but no retail sales are permitted due to its industrial zoning.

“Essentially, it’s another microbrewery location” for those limited activities, said City Attorney Tom Schultz.

Hendricks said their craft brews continue to grow in popularity, and besides their place in downtown Farmington several other establishments carry them. Customers will find FBC products at restaurants in Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Livonia, Canton, Howell, South Lyon, Troy, Commerce Township, Northville and Detroit.

“We’re really starting to branch out,” Hendricks said.

16 March, 2016