Elm Creek Brewing Changes Business Model to Adjust to COVID-19 Restrictions
Elm Creek Brewing Company is the first and only taproom over the border from Brooklyn Park, in Champlin. The establishment is now temporarily changing its business model because of the governor’s COVID-19 restrictions, including the closure of taprooms for four weeks.
“It’s been an anxious week,” said co-owner Wade Carlson. “We had a meeting yesterday to try to come together on what plans we could do to get us through the next few weeks. “
The craft brew maker always had plans to can beers, and now that the situation has come to a head, the company can quickly pivot its operation.
Elm Creek Brewing brought in a mobile canning unit to help them produce beer in cans which can be sold in liquor stores.
“We’re canning our first two beers. We’ve got a double IPA and a fruited kettle sour,” explained head brewer Nick Schute.
They recently brought in a mobile canning unit so they can sell beer at liquor stores. North Star canning brings the equipment, and elm creek brewing supplies the beer and tank.
“They bring in the cans, the canning line, and the label machine, and get it all set up. It takes an hour or so, and we hook up the beer and start running,” said Schute.
Elm Creek Brewing Company staff are optimistic. They hope crowler sales and four-packs at the liquor store can help them stay afloat during COVID-19 regulations.
