We live in a time where people willingly asks their friends and family for financial help through things like Go Fund Me pages.
Those pages have been used to raise funds for noble causes like paying for healthcare expenses or for housing after an unexpected disaster. They have also been used for less nobly pursuits like paying for travel or funding someone’s platic surgery.
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People now have the technology to put their hands out and ask for money and their friends and family can decide what’s worthy of being funded.
Businesses don’t generally ask for money in the same way, but it’s not unheard of. Many non-profit (on not profitable) local news operations take donations. In many ways, that works like when you go to a museum and there’s a suggested fee.
You don’t have to pay, but it’s the right thing to do.
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Now, one popular regional brewery has decided to ask its customers for help. That’s not an easy choice, but its one that might be the brand’s only chance at survival.
There’s no guarantee that it will work, but many people would be willing to kick in a little to help their favorite brands survive.
Breweries can be an important part of a neighborhood.
Image source: Shutterstock
Long Island Beer Company struggles
“Long Ireland Beer Company was started by Dan Burke and Greg Martin. They are two guys that wanted to quit their day jobs and make beer for a living, so that’s exactly what they did,” the company shares on its website. “We’ve been making beer since March 1, 2009.”
In addition to selling beer to go and wholesaling it to local stores and restaurants, the company also has a tap room.
“Come visit the brewery tap room. We are open 7 days a week for tasting flights, pints and beer to-go. Our beer garden is always open and also available to rent for private parties and events. Did we mention that we’re dog friendly,” it added.
Now, Long Island Beer Company has made a plea to its customers through its Facebook page.
“We’re not crying into our beers… but we’re definitely staring into them a little longer these days,” the company shared. “After 16 years of brewing beer on Long Island, the cost of everything has gone up, from hops & grain, to aluminum cans and cups! Sales are down everywhere, expenses are up, and this economy is rougher than the day after Half Way hangover.”
Retail closings:
Popular retail chain to close unprofitable store locationsBankrupt retail chain unloads store leases, key assetPopular discount retailer files bankruptcy, closes all stores
The owners were honest and blunt about where the company stands.
“We are struggling to survive like so many businesses are and our future isn’t guaranteed. Every day we see local breweries, restaurants and local businesses we love closing their doors and we don’t want that to be our fate too,” it added.
How you can help Long Island Beer Company
Dozens of local breweries have closed this year and it’s possible a few more would have survived if they simply asked their biggest supporters for help. That’s exactly what Long Beer Company had decided to do.Â
“We want nothing more than to keep making beer for you and throwing fun events that we’ve all come to love. But we can’t do it alone. So here’s how you can help keep the taps flowing here at Long Ireland,” it shared on Facebook.
Stop in with friends and knock back a few pints. We’re open 7 days a week!Stock up on cans, or grab a keg and be the hero of your next BBQ.Ask for us at your local beer store or distributor. We are now self distributed!Put us on tap if you own a bar or restaurant (we pair well with profits & local beer is always a good look!)Host your club or group in our tasting room — our brew house or beer garden make a unique location for your outing!
“The more you sip, the more we survive. Let’s keep this brewery alive one beer at a time. We hope to see all of you soon. Long live Long Ireland,” it closed.
Related: Another beloved furniture retailer closing, no bankruptcy
Long Island Beer Company’s Facebook page was packed with comments supporting the brand.
“Thanks for this post we love you guys and your beers have been a staple,” posted Lynndel Cassen.
Hundreds of people pledged to visit.
“Will definitely swing by this weekend to get some beer for this holiday weekend!” Brendan Noble wrote.
