USA, IL: Destihl Brewery’s growth not slowed down by pandemic

The pandemic didn’t slow Destihl Brewery’s growth in 2020 and the company is betting on 2021 being an even better year to make and sell beer, WGLT News reported on February 5.

The Normal-based brewery based has announced plans to expand capacity after increasing production by 25% last year.

“While our brewpub/restaurant and beer hall retail operations have been devastated by ongoing mandatory closures of indoor dining and other restrictions in our state, we are looking forward to a great 2021 at wholesale and retail,” co-founder and CEO Matt Potts said in a news release.

According to Destihl, draft beer sales fell 47% last year due to the pandemic-related closing of bars and restaurants, including its brewpub in Normal, and beer hall at the brewery in north Normal. However, the company said Destihl’s packaged beer sales grew 30%, which more than offset the loss in draft beer sales.

The brewery said it’s Wild Sour series that includes Here Gose Nothin,’ Synchopathic and Lynnbrook, led the surge in production at 55% over the previous year's levels.

Destihl plans to add 10,000 barrels of fermentation capacity at the end of March, more automation for its canning line, and the addition of other equipment later this year.

09 February, 2021