ESCONDIDO — While long-term plans remain unknown, Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens will remain open for at least the next six months following its parent company’s decision to cease brewing operations at its Escondido plant by the end of the year.
Last month, Sapporo USA, a subsidiary of Sapporo Breweries, sold Stone Brewing to Firestone Walker Brewing Company and Duvel Moortgat USA for an undisclosed amount.
Sapporo previously purchased Stone in 2022 for $165 million.
The decision to sell Stone comes as the brand celebrates its 30th anniversary and marks another setback for the company’s long-discussed expansion plans in Escondido, including a highly publicized proposal in 2016 for a 99-room boutique hotel that was ultimately never built.
According to Sapporo, declining demand in the U.S. beer market challenged operations. Despite this, sales of the Sapporo brand grew, leading the company to focus its resources on that label and transfer ownership of Stone.
Firestone Walker will shift Stone’s western brewing production to Paso Robles. Sapporo will wind down and eventually cease brewing operations at its facility on Citracado Parkway in Escondido. Brewing operations will continue at the company’s Richmond, Virginia, location.
As part of the acquisition, four retail locations — including Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station and taprooms in Little Italy, Oceanside and Pasadena — will remain open. The Liberty Station location will continue to provide hospitality services and operate as an active brewing facility.
“Stone is one of the most iconic brands in American craft beer and a pioneer of the West Coast IPA,” Nick Firestone said in a press release. “For 30 years they’ve built something legendary, a brand known for its commitment to quality, drive for innovation, and a true fighting spirit. We will honor what’s been built and carry it forward with the same authenticity and conviction that we love them for. The Stone heart keeps beating.”
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens was not included in the Firestone sale and remains under Sapporo’s ownership for now, though its long-term future remains uncertain.
In a May 14 Facebook post, the restaurant and company store said they would continue operating as usual for the next six months.
“We’d love for you to come visit, enjoy the gardens, take a brewery tour, grab some food, beer, or merch, and spend some time with our team,” the post reads.
Sapporo did not return The Coast News’ request for comment.
