USA, WI: SwitchGear Brewing now open in Elkhart Lake

SwitchGear Brewing is now open in Elkhart Lake, bringing a craft brewery and taproom to the community, The Sheboygan Press reported.

SwitchGear Brewing was conceived over the past several years by a group of friends and co-workers at Masters Gallery Foods. The passionate ownership team consists of Nick Kullmann, with primary expertise in brewing, Ryan Feldmann, with primary talent in sales, and Mark Grasse, with primary experience in operations. All three will continue their roles at Masters Gallery.

“The name SwitchGear carries a number of origins for our team, including motor vehicle enthusiasts,” Grasse said. “But more than everything, it points to our mutual passion for brewing.”

The brewery is located within the Feedmill Shops at Elkhart Lake, and suitable to the SwitchGear name, strategically located at the start-finish line for the old Elkhart Lake racing course. The brewery features a new three-barrel system designed to accommodate future growth plans that may include wholesale distribution.

The brewery’s focus is on creating quality beers to excite a wide range of enthusiasts.

“We will certainly please a broad-based group of customers with Bourbon Barrel Stouts, Red Ales, Various IPA’s, Nut Browns, Smash Pale Ales, just to name a few,” Kullmann said. “Our brands also make a point of respecting the grandeur of our local area with names such as Kettle Cream Ale and Resorter Red Ale.”

Financing for the business was provided by Commerce State Bank. Real estate site alternatives, business plan development, and financial strategy development were facilitated through the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) in collaboration with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Green Bay.

The project also included a loan funding from the Village of Elkhart Lake’s revolving loan fund.

"The village was very supportive to the project,” SCEDC’s Business Development Specialist Jim Schuessler said. “The community takes a very positive approach to closing retail gaps, which in turn enhances an overall good quality of life.”

31 May, 2017