E-Malt.com News article: USA, OH: Springfield Brewing Company expanding with a new production facility in Willard

Springfield Brewing Company is expanding, with a new production facility and tasting room to open in Willard by next spring, the Springfield News-Leader reported on May 18.

The brewery announced on May 18 that the new location will be in the Ozark Greenways, Inc. mural building, along the Frisco Highline Trail. For fans of the vibrant mural on side of the building, no need to worry. The mural will remain.

"Our taproom will provide both residents and trail users with a unique venue where the community can gather, refresh, and relax," a Facebook post by the brewery states. "The space will feature a large tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as room for our brewers and distillers to experiment with wild fermentations and small-batch spirits from our Ty Iechyd Da Distillery."

Brewing and Production Manager Brian Allen said the company anticipates the new Willard expansion will provide a less formal experience than the establishment in downtown Springfield, with more bar service and less of a food presence.

Springfield Brewing Company is traditionally known for its European and British-styles, Allen said. With the addition of the new production facility, the brewery has plans to expand its offerings, experimenting with more Belgian influences and American craft beers.

Additionally, the production facility in Willard will not be as climate-controlled as the one in Springfield, Allen said, which will make for better production of spirits for the company's sister distillery, Ty Iechyd Da Distillery.

The brewery will begin renovating the building this fall and expect to open to the public by spring 2024, according to a Facebook post. "The Frisco Highline Tap & Tasting Room" is a contender for the Willard location's name, but according to a news release, the brewery plans on hosting a name contest to see what creative ideas the community has to offer.

"We are thrilled that such a prominent organization like Springfield Brewing Company has identified Willard as the location for this new enterprise," Willard Mayor Samuel Snider said. "SBC's plan to re-purpose the mural building along the historic Frisco Highline Trail is exciting, not only for locals, but also for the thousands of people who recreate on the trail throughout the year."

Springfield Brewing Company opened in downtown Springfield 25 years ago. The brewery has won 13 Great American Beer Festival Medals and two World Beer Cup medals over the years.

About 18 months ago, the brewery established Ty Iechyd Da Distillery. Since its launch, the distillery has produced 25 spirits and won two American Distilling Institute medals.



18 May, 2023