Last Friday, West Coaster broke the news that Miramar-based Pacific Brewing Company had closed its doors for good. After communicating with both of the company’s founders, Chris Chalmers and Andrew Heino, the shuttering comes after a number of difference between the two ranging from company identity to day-to-day operations to growth and production goals. In the end, those differences and a lack of profitability led to a parting of ways and the decision to shut down.
Both Chalmers and Heino voiced regret and even “heartbreak” over this development. The former has moved on, while the latter has three years remaining on the lease for Pacific Brewing’s Miralani Drive facility. Heino says he is planning on opening a new brewery operation and associated tasting-room, he is not ready to disclose details of that operation.
But visitors to the small business-park Pacific Brewing called home won’t want for beer. 2Kids Brewing Company, a husband-wife venture that opened around the same time as Pacific Brewing, remains as the lone brewery tenant…for now. Protector Brewery, an all-organic brewing operation headed by Navy SEALs, is in the works in the same park, which will also welcome Setting Sun Sake Brewing Company later this year. And right across the street is the long-awaited Thunderhawk Alements, which is facing delays but hopes to begin brewing in a matter of weeks.
“To all our loyal customers and enthusiasts, it is with great regret that we must announce that Pacific Brewing is permanently closing its doors,” says Chalmers. “We have enjoyed some fantastic years due to your patronage and we are thankful to have the honor and pleasure of your company and continued presence with us as we developed our beers as well as our commitment to deliver an outstanding product. We are forever indebted to all of the goodwill, support and appreciation from all who have joined us in the PBC family. Cheers to beers and much thanks from the bottom of our hearts!”