In March, Home Brewing Co. owner George Thornton announced he was looking for a buyer for his combination homebrew-supply store and nanobrewery. Numerous interested parties contacted him about the opportunity, getting to the point where they and Thornton approached the North Park business’ landlord. Unfortunately, that was far as any of the potential buyers got. And so yesterday, with a heavy heart yet a great deal of reflection, appreciation and even optimism, Thornton announced that he is closing Home Brewing Co. for good and that its last day of operation will be Sunday, May 22.
“After some rollercoaster months of getting things lined up for the sell and a series of bummer moves from a series of folk, we have reached the end of our runway and the deadline I set for myself to move on, so…we’re moving on,” said Thornton in a public statement. “You may respond to this with sadness or concern or even anger…but I invite you to see this as the beautiful and wonderful thing it is: an opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going.”
In announcing the impending closure, Thornton reflected on what that small business was able to accomplish during its decade in business. Among them was being named Homebrew Store of the Year in its first year of operation by the American Homebrewers Association, and winning numerous “best of” awards from various publications, including San Diego CityBeat, The San Diego Reader, Eater San Diego and West Coaster. Just as meaningful to Thornton as the above accolades was employing as many as 40 San Diegans, and hosting regular Trashy Hour neighborhood cleanups and other positive community events.
“Our business motto is ‘save the universe through homebrew.’ Why? Because we believe that focusing on the little things can make a big impact, and I believe that we have,” says Thornton. “Our society is unhealthily obsessed with constant growth and expansion. It’s not realistic. All good things come to an end. So, view this as just part of that beautiful cycle. Don’t fight it. Celebrate with us…and buy lots of homebrew supplies off of us this week, as well.”
Prior to its last day, Home Brewing Co. will offer 25% off homebrewing supplies and equipment as well as 50% off branded merchandise. Its stock of house beers will be on sale for $4 apiece, with crowler fills going for $10. As for the on-site one-barrel brewery, Thornton says that is the property of the bank and, therefore, not for sale.
“I am happy to have been able to serve you all in the homebrew community,” says Thornton. “I’ve learned far more than I could have imagined. I have worked with, and for, and alongside the most incredible and inspiring people I have ever known. I feel full of opportunity, creativity and awe for what is to come.”
Home Brewing Co. is located at 2911 El Cajon Boulevard in North Park