News Summary
Wormtown Brewery is undergoing a significant renovation and expansion of its Shrewsbury Street taproom in Worcester. The project will more than double the taproom’s size, with plans for a restaurant-style atmosphere featuring a lounge, gaming options, and collaboration with local restaurants. The upgrade aims to enhance the customer experience and pay tribute to Worcester’s local culture while commemorating the brewery’s upcoming anniversary. The space is currently closed for construction, with updates anticipated soon.
Worcester’s Wormtown Brewery Announces Major Renovation and Expansion of Shrewsbury Street Taproom
A significant upgrade is underway at Wormtown Brewery’s Shrewsbury Street taproom in Worcester, marking one of the latest developments in the local craft beer scene. The taproom has been closed since July 3, 2024, with plans for a comprehensive renovation leading to an expansion that will more than double its size. The project aims to transform the space into a larger, more restaurant-style venue, with the total area reaching approximately 10,000 square feet.
Details of the Renovation and Expansion
The ongoing construction involves removing and reconstructing a brick wall behind the bar to create a more open environment. Once completed, the expansion will add about 4,500 square feet to the existing taproom. The redesigned space will feature design elements such as blue and white stained glass windows, a lounge area called ‘the Barrel Loft’, and a second floor with a relaxed atmosphere, foosball tables, and potential for additional gaming options. A kitchen is also part of the plans, with collaborations expected with local restaurants for pop-up food events.
Ownership and Business Impact
Wormtown Brewery, founded in 2010, has undergone recent ownership changes. In April 2024, the Hendler Family Brewing Co., parent of Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, purchased the brewery to support its continued growth. Despite the ownership change, the brewery’s core beer lineup has remained mostly unchanged, with only minor adjustments to packaging and release schedules. Several key members of the production team have relocated to Wormtown’s newer facility in Framingham.
The closure of the Worcester taproom was a planned part of the expansion project. An official representative confirmed that the space remains in ‘heavy construction’ and that updates regarding its reopening will be provided soon. Meanwhile, the brewery’s other location in Foxborough has experienced increased patronage during this period, especially during Patriots home games when the taproom opens at 10 a.m. and can draw thousands of fans. During game days, popular offerings include hot dogs, burgers, and bratwurst, with ‘Be Hoppy’ serving as a favored beer among game attendees. The Foxboro location plans to reopen at noon with multiple TVs displaying NFL games and RedZone coverage.
Community and Cultural Elements
Decorations in the new Shrewsbury Street space are designed to honor Worcester’s local culture and the Wormtown brand. Murals and other artwork pay homage to the city’s history. The second floor lounge, with its gameplay tables, aims to offer a more relaxed and social environment. The brewery also plans to introduce distilling services alongside brewing in the future, adding depth to the customer experience.
Future Plans and Expectations
The grand reopening of the renovated taproom is set to occur alongside Wormtown Brewery’s 11th birthday celebration, marking a significant milestone. The extended space aims to provide a variety of experiences—from casual dining and craft beer tasting to community events and pop-up collaborations with local eateries. The expansion signifies both a response to the growing craft beer market in Worcester and an anticipation of continued success for the brewery.
Overall, the project reflects Wormtown’s commitment to growth and innovation within the craft brewing scene, providing an enlarged venue that seeks to become a hub for community and craft beer enthusiasts alike.
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Additional Resources
- Telegram: Beyond Beer Amid Construction, Something’s Brewing at Wormtown
- Wikipedia: Wormtown Brewery
- Boston Magazine: Wormtown Brewery at Patriot Place
- Google Search: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Wormtown Brewery’s New Worcester Taproom
- Google Scholar: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Meet the New Wormtown Brewery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wormtown Brewery
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