Redemption Rock Brewery in Worcester is closing its doors at the end of the month.
The brewery announced the news on social media, citing a lack of growth as the reason for its closure. Redemption Rocks’ last day of business will be Sunday, Dec. 29 — a couple of weeks shy of six full years of business.
“Despite our best efforts, we simply haven’t been able to grow the business enough to remain open,” the brewery wrote. “And we’ve run out of time.”
Since opening in January 2019, Redemption Rock evolved into a colorful, multi-faceted part of the city’s beer scene. The brewery has operated as comfortable, dog-friendly destination that has offered a rotating variety of beers and shandies.
The brewery — located just off Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street — has also been a hub for events, including live music, book club and cooking classes. It has even held its own series of mini board game conventions.
Throughout its nearly six years of operation, Redemption Rock was well known for its connections to the Worcester community. Instead of taking gratuity on drinks, the brewery has re-directed tips to local charities and non-profits.
The announcement on Redemption Rock’s Facebook page sparked an outpouring of support from customers, many of who left heartfelt messages about how much the establishment meant to them.
Here’s the full statement Redemption Rock posted on its Facebook page:
“It is with equal parts sadness and gratitude that we’re announcing that Redemption Rock Brewing is closing. Our last day will be Sunday, December 29. Despite our best efforts, we simply haven’t been able to grow the business enough to remain open. And we’ve run out of time.
“But for the time we did have, we’re forever grateful.
“Before we ever opened, our vision was to be a canvas for the community. And for nearly six years, we were exactly that, in so many wonderful ways. This place was a special, joyful, and welcoming space, and that’s entirely a reflection of the people who spent their time here.
“It was the quiet afternoons and lively evenings, first dates and play dates, birthdays, weddings, showers, retirement parties, gaming nights, and so much more. And it was all our amazing regulars, who we now call friends.
“It was the nonprofits who saw the potential in this space to do important things for the community. It was the small business owners – the food trucks and pop ups, the market vendors, the workshops – who let us be a part of their dreams. It was the local musicians that filled the air in this space. And of course, we were often a literal canvas, with so many talented artists gracing our walls and beer labels.
“But more than anything, it was our employees who left their mark on this place. Whether it was building a vibrant cafe program, beautifying our taproom, filling our nights with events, or capturing our spirit on social media, these people took our crazy little idea and nurtured it into the loving and comforting place it became. They’re our heart and soul, our creative engine, and the face of Redemption Rock. We can’t thank them enough.
“For nearly six years, our community shared their lives with us. Together, we created something unique and memorable. Those memories will live with us forever, and so will our gratitude for everyone who had a part in it.
“Thank you for letting us live our dream, and for making that dream something more meaningful than we ever could have imagined.
“So, what comes next?
“Simply put, we’re going to finish strong. Our hours and offering will remain the same for as long as they can, our events calendar will go on as planned, and we’ll keep providing the same good vibes we always have through December 29.
“Additionally, all tips will be going to our employees from here on out. Please treat them generously.
“Will it get crazy busy here in December? We sure hope so. And we hope you’ll come and celebrate with us as often as you can, or at least for one last beer.”
Redemption Rock will remain open seven days a week until its closing date on Dec. 29. More information is available on the brewery’s website.
