Leinenkugel’s Brewery in Wisconsin is closing

The historic Leinenkugel’s brewery in Chippewa Falls is closing after more than 150 years of operation in the western Wisconsin city as parent company Molson Coors centralizes brewing operations in Milwaukee.

“While never easy, these decisions are made with great care and consideration to position Molson Coors for continued success in Wisconsin and beyond,” Brian Erhardt, the company’s chief supply chain officer, said in a statement.

No timeline was given for the brewery’s closure.

“The Leinie Lodge and adjacent pilot brewery will remain open year-round for guests to enjoy and experience Leinenkugel’s beers and history,” Erhardt said of the brand’s remaining presence in Chippewa Falls.

The brewery employs around 120 people and produces 185,000 barrels of beer annually.

Leinenkugel was sold to Miller in 1988, which was later incorporated into beer giant Molson Coors.

The brewery’s former president, Dick Leinenkugel, told radio station WTMJ that he was “deeply saddened by the Molson Coors leadership team’s decision to close our brewery and home in Chippewa Falls.”

“For over 157 years and six generations of family ownership, Leinenkugel’s has been brewing great beers for our legions of fans across Wisconsin and the country,” its statement said. “None of our family members knew or were advised about the decision. It is a sad day for our family and our fans.”