As we continue to profile breweries post-pandemic, one thing that becomes clear is that many of the restrictions from 2020 have had a lasting impact on businesses moving forward. As you may recall, during the past year breweries all over the state were forced to change how their businesses operated through a variety of restrictions.
As those restrictions have been lifted many breweries are reshaping the way they operate moving forward. One of those breweries that have implemented permanent changes coming out of 2020 is Devout Brewing of Export, PA.
We sat down with owner Pete Renwick to learn more about the changes and what the future holds for the Westmoreland County brewery.
As the story goes, when the brewery first opened back in 2018 they had initially planned for an outdoor beer garden. At first, they placed a handful of tables outside of the taproom. Unfortunately, not many customers took advantage of the space, rather choosing to consume their craft beer inside the taproom.
Once Pennsylvania forced consumers to dine outdoors in 2020, the outdoor area instantly became the popular meeting place at Devout. The brewery added even more tables and the beer garden took form.
As restrictions have been lifted consumers were welcomed back into the taproom, but many had become familiar and happy with the outdoor enjoyment during 2020. As a result, the brewery took the step to make the beer garden a permanent fixture of the business. They broke ground and the original outdoor plans became a reality.
The new beer garden officially opened in July of 2021. As you can see below, the new space offers guests the ideal outdoor drinking location. Sun sails offer a shaded spot for a relaxing environment to enjoy the wide variety of craft beer available. In total, the space can easily accommodate over 100 guests.
But the beer garden isn’t the only change coming from the Export brewery. Pete confirmed that Devout has purchased their very own canning line. As of right now, the only to-go beer option available at the brewery is through growler sales. That all changes this fall when their canning line becomes operational.
This will be the first time the brewery will offer their beer in cans. As Pete shared with us, quality is very important to them. At the same time, the majority of their beer production supports their taproom operation. So the thought of not being able to control the quality of their canned beer and also taking away from taproom draft supply made it difficult to introduce the option just yet.
Operating their own canning line will allow them to control the quality of beer making its way into the market. However, Pete acknowledges that to support both draft and canned options the brewery will be even busier with their increased brew days. But that they are looking forward to the challenge.
As you can see, there are many changes in store for Devout as they continue to move forward. The only way to experience the excitement for yourself is to visit their brewery in Export. Also make sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
