Lincoln-based Zipline Brewing Company abruptly shuts down
Nebraska Public Media • • business
Key Points:
- Lincoln-based Zipline Brewing, once Nebraska's largest craft brewery, has abruptly closed its brewing operations and taproom, affecting about 18 staff members who lost their jobs immediately.
- Despite the closure, Zipline's Tap & Grill location in northwest Lincoln will remain open as the company shifts focus to becoming a restaurant-centered business.
- The closure surprised employees who were in the midst of brewing beer and had a full inventory ready for shipment, including a new IPA called "Galactic Enigma."
- The brewery's beer hall was scheduled to host a political event featuring Senators Pete Ricketts and Ted Cruz, which drew social media criticism, though the event was later moved to a larger venue due to high RSVPs.
- Zipline was acquired by AKRS Equipment Solutions a few years ago, whose CEO has made significant donations to Republican campaigns, and management cited unsuccessful sale negotiations as a reason for the shutdown.