Theres more to come: Chilliwack brewerys closure a sign of industry troubles – BC [Video]

Next Friday will mark the end of an era for Chilliwack’s Kristopher Schmidt.

After four years in business, he’s closing up shop at Bricklayer Brewing, citing rising costs, a more expensive lease and difficult economic conditions.

“The decline in the industry lately has been really tough since COVID and it’s just not getting better,” he told Global News.

“Unfortunately it is a sign of the industry right now, and a sign of just everything right now. Everyone’s pocketbooks are tight right now.”

Bricklayer is the second brewery to close in Chilliwack in recent months.

The B.C. Craft Brewers’ Guild says the problem extends far beyond the Fraser Valley.

Three Okanagan breweries recently closed up shop, and guild executive director Ken Beattie said 14 across the province have tapped out in the last six to eight months.

“I happen to know there’s more that are hanging on, so this won’t unfortunately …