Modern Times Beer moves to AleSmith Brewing

After the dust settled on Modern Times Beer’s disastrous over-expansion and founder improprieties, Hawaii’s Maui Brewing purchased the famed San Diego, California brewery and has been correcting the business model since. Today Craft ‘Ohana, the parent company that operates both Maui Brewing and Modern Times, announced it will move all of the latter’s mainland production to AleSmith Brewing.

The new partnership agreement between companies is not a buyout or acquisition, it is a strategic business move to save on costs by pivoting to a more streamlined approach and strategy. The current Modern Times production brewery will be shutting down completely in the next few months as production begins to make the shift to Alesmith’s state-of-the-art brewery also located in San Diego

“When we set out to find a brewing partner, two things were non-negotiable – our commitment to quality and brewing Modern Times where the brand started and is the strongest – San Diego. AleSmith delivers on both of those for us. We’re excited to work with my good friend Peter and his team” said Garrett W. Marrero, Co-founder and CEO of Craft ‘Ohana.  

Brandon Richards, President of AleSmith, shared his excitement about the partnership with Craft ‘Ohana. “Our deep-rooted relationship with Craft ‘Ohana makes this collaboration particularly special. We’re honored to brew for the renowned Modern Times brand, and this aligns seamlessly with our goal of expanding our production to support other notable brands.”

AleSmith Brewing production facility

This partnership will allow Craft ‘Ohana to brew Modern Times brands at a world-class, award-winning brewery in their largest mainland market of San Diego. AleSmith’s newer, more efficient brewery will allow Craft ‘Ohana to continue to brew core Modern Times fan favorites, along with limited release specialties, while simplifying their footprint and portfolio. Over the next 60 days, this new arrangement will mean the eventual closure of the Modern Times’ production facility.  

Maui Brewing beer and Maui Hard Seltzer are reportedly doing quite well (collectively up 23% YTD on the mainland), this change will allow the team to stay focused on growing those brands while reducing complexity in the Modern Times brand portfolio with a focus on key core fan favorites in the home market and beyond.