Woodbridge-based New England Brewing Co., producer of some of Connecticut’s most popular brews, has acquired Stony Creek Brewery’s facility along the Branford River, marking a major expansion.
NEBCO said it plans to relocate its headquarters to Stony Creek’s former location at 5 Indian Neck Ave. in Branford.
According to land records, a NEBCO affiliate — GLOBEXX LLC — acquired Stony Creek’s property for $6.1 million on July 18.
Stony Creek’s taproom was known for its waterfront views and amenities, including a kitchen, and dining and event space.
NEBCO, founded in 2001, will maintain its original location at 175 Amity Road in Woodbridge while transforming the Branford facility into its main production center.
“This expansion is a long time coming and a significant milestone for us,” said Rob Leonard, owner and founder of NEBCO. “The timing aligns perfectly for us to expand our reach in the craft beer community.”
NEBCO is the third-largest brewery in Connecticut, producing about 21,000 barrels in 2023, according to Hartford Business Journal research.
Stony Creek was the fifth-largest brewery in Connecticut, producing 14,233 barrels in 2023.
NEBCO manufactures some of the state’s most highly sought beers among aficionados, including Sea Hag, Coriolis and Fuzzy Baby Ducks.
The acquisition comes as Stony Creek founders Ed and Peggy Crowley, along with their son Ed Jr., have decided to step away from the business they launched in 2010.
The family opened the Branford facility in 2015.
“After many incredible years of brewing and serving our community, we felt it was the right time to step away,” Ed Crowley said. “We’re grateful to have found a Connecticut-based brewer to take over the reins. We have full confidence in NEBCO’s ability to elevate the space and continue its tradition as a vibrant destination for beer lovers.”
The sale includes the brewery property, taproom, event space and kitchen facilities, but does not include the Stony Creek brand or business operations.
NEBCO plans to renovate the facility in the coming weeks, temporarily closing the taproom while working to honor existing event bookings. The company expects the expansion to increase production to 30,000 barrels annually.
In addition, NEBCO announced a partnership with local restaurateurs Robert Marcarelli and Jared Schulefand of Pi Restaurant Consulting to launch “NEBCO Craft Kitchen by Supreme Seafood.” The duo, known for Supreme Seafood and Home Restaurant, will offer New England seafood specialties including lobster rolls, along with burgers and wings.
The new food service is expected to begin with dinner offerings later this summer, with expanded hours to follow.
The venue will continue to feature pizza trucks and host visiting food vendors for special events.
“Our goal, as always, is to continue making world-class beer while providing an exceptional experience for our customers,” Leonard said. “We can’t wait to embark on this journey and are excited to welcome everyone to our Branford facility.”
The company has not announced a specific reopening date for the Branford taproom, but plans to share updates through its website and social media channels.
