Bold Rock Hard Cider has announced the closure of its Asheville taproom due to Tropical Storm Helene, which has caused a significant downturn in tourism and economic challenges in the area. The company expressed regret over this decision but noted the inability to sustain operations amid ongoing market conditions, following a wider trend of closures in the service industry. The Mills River and Charlotte locations remain operational, providing continued access to its cider products.
Bold Rock Hard Cider has announced the closure of its downtown Asheville taproom, attributing the decision largely to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. The company shared the news on social media on December 6, expressing sadness over the closure and acknowledging the challenges posed by both the storm and ongoing market conditions. They stated, “It is with sadness that we announce the closing of our Bold Rock Asheville taproom. After the losses from Hurricane Helene and continued market challenges, we are unable to continue operating in this location. We have loved being a part of the Asheville community and being able to welcome so many through our doors.”
The tourism industry in Buncombe County has struggled significantly, reporting a 70% downturn and $584 million in revenue losses since the storm’s impact. The situation has been exacerbated for various food and beverage establishments, many of which have experienced temporary closures or reduced operations. Notably, Wicked Weed Brewing also faced challenges, leading to the indefinite closure of its Funkatorium and Cultura restaurant due to similar financial strains caused by Helene.
Founded in 2012 by John Washburn and Brian Shanks, Bold Rock has established itself as a notable craft beverage producer, emphasizing locally sourced apples. The Asheville taproom, which opened in 2021, is now closed, but the Mills River and Charlotte locations remain operational, and cider is still being distributed in retail outlets across several states. Customers looking for Bold Rock cider can find products in stores while the company continues to operate its remaining venues.
For more information, please visit boldrock.com or facebook.com/BoldRockAVL.
Bold Rock Hard Cider is a prominent craft cider producer that has expanded its operations from Virginia into North Carolina, reflecting the growing popularity of local craft beverages. The closure of their Asheville location comes as part of a broader trend affecting the service industry in this region following significant tourism declines due to Tropical Storm Helene. This storm has caused widespread disruptions, leading many businesses to face tough decisions regarding their operations. The state of tourism in Buncombe County has been particularly precarious, which has affected various eateries and breweries, underscoring the challenges that the hospitality sector faces in maintaining operations amid such adversities.
The closure of Bold Rock’s Asheville taproom highlights the ongoing struggles faced by businesses in the service industry following the adverse effects of Tropical Storm Helene. With significant declines in tourism and revenue losses reported, many establishments continue to navigate challenging market conditions. While the downtown location is now closed, Bold Rock intends to maintain its presence in North Carolina through its other operational taprooms, ensuring that consumers can still access its products despite the recent setbacks.
Original Source: www.citizen-times.com
