USA, PA: Liquid Art Brewing Co. set to close after more than 15 years in business

Liquid Art Brewing Co. of Franklin County is set to close this Sunday, October 8, after more than 15 years in business, the Chambersburg Public Opinion reported on October 3.

Formerly known as Roy-Pitz Brewing Co., the beloved beer brewer and bar/restaurant in Chambersburg made its closing announcement Monday night on Facebook. In addition to the brewery and Beer Stube at 140 N. Third St., the Liquid Art Tap Room in Gettysburg will also close.

"We could not have made the last 15 years happen without each and every employee, partner, friend, family, and customer that walked through our doors and believed in our dream of creating Liquid Art. To say we’re appreciative just isn't saying enough. This community has supported us endlessly and we won't ever forget that," the statement reads.

"To all the regulars, Liquid Art Club Members, and patrons far and wide that have chosen to be a part of the experience over the last decade and a half, all we can say is that it has been the pleasure of a lifetime to create something that so many chose to make a part of their lives. We are endlessly inspired by that connection to so many and seeing how far and wide the brand grew over that time with the help of so many and are so touched that we were able to be a part of so many special moments with so many."

The announcement that Liquid Art is closing down comes less than a month since the company closed its Philadelphia bar and restaurant, The Barrel House.

"After just over 6 years, we are unable to continue to support our presence in this fair city. We are shifting our focus to our locations in Chambersburg and Gettysburg, but not without extremely heavy hearts," that announcement read.

Ryan Richards and Jesse Rotz founded the company in 2008. They took inspiration from their nicknames, Roy and Pitz, respectively, to develop a brand that grew to become known around the country.

They set up shop in an old warehouse on North Third Street, with the brewing side of the business in the basement and a bar/restaurant upstairs.

Roy-Pitz officially became Liquid Art last summer. The reason was two-fold: to put a bigger spotlight on the company's many team members, not just those who it was named for, and to expand the brand by putting more emphasis on their goal to make "liquid art," Rotz told Public Opinion at the time.

The name change came as Liquid Art was focusing on overcoming the struggles it faced amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Liquid Art opened an event venue, which was put on hold in March 2020, added a new seating area, and made its outdoor patio area permanent — doubling seating capacity.

"This year will be our best year from a sales standpoint in all our history," Rotz said just over a year ago.

Rotz did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

03 October, 2023