USA, VA: O’Connor Brewing Co. closing Norfolk location, selling building to another brewer

O’Connor Brewing Co. is closing its Norfolk taproom and brewing facility, the owners announced on social media on July 7. The brewery’s last day of operation is July 23, Yahoo News reported.

“Although we are sad to say goodbye to our current neighborhood and employees, we are proud and grateful to be a part of the local business community since 2010 and look forward to this upcoming new chapter and the evolution of our business,” owners Kevin and Penny O’Connor said in a statement on social media.

Armed Forces Brewing Co., a military-themed, veteran-owned brewer from Annapolis, Maryland, will move into the brewing facility, bringing 47 jobs, according to an announcement from Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

O’Connor opened in 2010 and moved to its current location at 211 W. 24th St. in 2014. The beers were a hit: The company then began producing thousands of barrels a year.

Then, former employees called out the beer maker and its leadership for fostering an environment of racism, sexism and harassment in 2021. O’Connor management also implemented changes from a voluntary workplace culture investigation.

In the June 7th announcement, O’Connor owners said the beer brand will still be manufactured and sold at restaurants and stores.

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