MILWAUKEE – Spike Brewing, a local brewing equipment manufacturer, is announcing plans to construct a $9 million, 73,000 square-foot state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on a City-owned vacant lot in the Estabrook Park neighborhood.
Spike Brewing was founded in 2011 by Ben Caya, a UW-Milwaukee alumnus, and sells brewing equipment products throughout the United States and Canada. Their products include brewing kettles, fermenters, brew systems, brewing pumps, electrical panels, and beer chilling devices.
“This building has been over 10 years in the making. After winning the Reader’s Choice Homebrew Brand of the Year Award in 2021, it only seems fitting that we move into a new, state-of-the-art production facility,” said Ben Caya. “We plan on expanding our product offerings, creating more jobs and hosting brewing classes to teach the local community about the best hobby they never knew existed— brewing beer at home!”
The Redevelopment Authority of the City of Milwaukee (RACM) is selling Spike Brewing this nearly four-acre lot at 4132 North Holton Street for one dollar. The City of Milwaukee worked with the previous owners, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to clean up contamination at this property near the Milwaukee River.
The company’s new facility will retain its 25 current employees and plans to hire another 20 people with the expansion; an 80% increase. The expansion will allow the company to implement three new production lines, and will include temporary rental space for another business. Spike Brewing plans to occupy the full building in the future as their business continues to grow.
“Milwaukee boasts a rich history in manufacturing and beer making. Spike Brewing’s new facility will be an excellent addition to the community that will add value to the neighborhood,” said Mayor Cavalier Johnson. “With strong partners like Spike Brewing, we are building a manufacturing future here with good companies, modern facilities, and jobs for great Milwaukee workers.”
“I’m thrilled Spike Brewing is investing in the 6th District and creating new jobs in the neighborhood,” said Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs. “This is an exciting development that is respecting iconic Milwaukee industries, growing our local economy, and providing new opportunities for residents and families.”
Spike Brewing’s goal is for the building to be 100% solar powered. The facility will also include a cutting-edge test brewery, where Spike will teach local community members about brewing beer at home.
The company is utilizing New Market Tax Credits, conventional financing, and RACM revolving loan funding to complete this development project. Approvals from RACM and the Milwaukee Common Council will be sought in the coming weeks.
