USA, AL: Red Clay Brewing Co. to end operations in March

The owners of Opelika’s Red Clay Brewing Co. say it will close in March, al.com reported on January 5.

The brewery on North Railroad Avenue posted a notice on social media on January 5 that it will, “with a heavy heart,” shut its doors in the same month it celebrates its 11th anniversary.

The brewery was founded by Auburn graduates Kerry McGinnis and John Corbin along with co-owner Stephen Harle.

“For the past decade, Red Clay has been more than just a taproom; it has been a front-row seat to the growth of our incredible community,” the notice reads.

“It has been an absolute honor to serve you, to celebrate your milestones, and to be a part of the fabric of downtown Opelika.”

The brewery plans to remain open through March as it sells its inventory and breaks down the brewing equipment.

The owners also have a few special events on tap in the months ahead, the notice states.

Alabama’s once burgeoning craft brewing industry has seen contraction in recent years as reduced foot traffic and economic headwinds have impacted sales.

Brewer’s Cooperative in Huntsville closed last October. Helena’s Oversoul Brewing Co. shuttered in September, and Birmingham’s Uproot closed in July, with plans to continue through contract brewing.

Birmingham’s Ghost Train filed for bankruptcy but promised a return. Other smaller labels have been swallowed up in recent years by bigger players.

But the Red Clay owners say the brewery’s “spirit isn’t going anywhere - it’s just changing shape.”

“While we wish we could keep the taps flowing indefinitely, we are choosing to focus on the gratitude we feel for this ‘adventure of a lifetime,’” the notice reads.