When it comes to the closure of Catawba Brewery’s facility in Morganton, North Carolina, there were several factors at play. The decision to shut down the original location and move production to New Orleans was a strategic move driven by the increasing demand for their craft beers. As the brewery’s CEO, Alexi Sekmakas, mentioned in an interview with Nola.com, the closure was a result of outgrowing their capacity.
One of the primary reasons behind the closure was the brewery’s need for increased production capabilities. With their facility in Morganton unable to meet the rising demand for Catawba’s beers, it became clear that a larger and more modern facility was required. By relocating to New Orleans, Catawba Brewery aimed to take advantage of a larger market and tap into the vibrant craft beer scene that the city is known for.
The decision to move to New Orleans also offered Catawba Brewery the opportunity to expand their distribution network and reach a wider customer base. With the craft beer industry flourishing in the area, the brewery saw it as a chance to establish a stronger presence and build brand recognition beyond their original home in Morganton. This strategic move was driven by the desire to propel Catawba Brewery into a new phase of growth and make their beers more accessible to a broader audience.
Another factor that influenced the closure was the need to optimize production efficiency. By relocating to a newer facility in New Orleans, Catawba Brewery could take advantage of advanced brewing equipment and streamlined processes. This allowed them to increase their production volumes, improve quality control, and meet the growing expectations of their customers.
Furthermore, the decision to close the Morganton facility and move operations to New Orleans was not taken lightly. Catawba Brewery considered various logistics and cost-related aspects. While the move undoubtedly involved significant expenses, the long-term benefits outweighed the immediate challenges. By operating in a larger facility with improved infrastructure, Catawba Brewery could reduce operational costs and run more efficiently, ultimately positioning themselves for sustained success.
It’s worth noting that the closure of the Morganton location should not be interpreted as a failure on Catawba Brewery’s part. In fact, it can be seen as a testament to their growth and ambition. By recognizing the increasing demand for their beers and proactively seeking solutions to accommodate that demand, Catawba Brewery demonstrated their commitment to evolving with the craft beer industry.
In conclusion, Catawba Brewery closed its facility in Morganton and moved production to New Orleans due to the need for increased production capabilities, the opportunity to expand their distribution network, the aim to optimize production efficiency, and the long-term benefits of operating in a larger facility. The closure was driven by the brewery’s commitment to meeting customer demand and positioning themselves for continued success in the dynamic craft beer market.
