News Summary
Cycle Brewing, the oldest craft brewery in St. Petersburg, has announced its closure of the downtown taproom at 534 Central Avenue by the end of May 2025. Founder Doug Dozark cited shifting industry dynamics and changing consumer preferences as key reasons for the closure. The brewery plans to focus on out-of-state distribution after selling most of its inventory, while a final bottled beer will be released. Despite the taproom closure, brewing operations will continue at a new location, reflecting the evolving craft beer landscape.
St. Petersburg, Florida – Cycle Brewing, known as the oldest craft brewery in the city, has announced its closure of the downtown taproom at 534 Central Avenue effective by the end of May 2025 after nearly 12 years in operation. The news was shared by founder Doug Dozark on social media, highlighting the brewery’s response to shifting industry dynamics and changing consumer preferences.
Cycle Brewing’s decision to close comes amid rising condominium developments in the area and a perceived decline in the craft beer industry. The brewery’s lease, originally set to expire on May 31, 2026, is pending approval for transfer to Green Turtle Brewery and Public House, a new British-themed establishment that plans to take over the location along with Cycle’s brewing equipment.
Despite this transition, Cycle Brewing has been preparing for its exit while navigating uncertainty around the leasing process. Dozark characterized the decision to close as bittersweet, a move that has been in the works for several years influenced by market challenges and the dwindling prospects for craft beer sales.
Inventory and Future Plans
In preparation for the closure, Cycle Brewing will sell most of its current inventory rather than relocating it to a warehouse. The brewery is pivoting its focus towards out-of-state distribution, which is slated to begin in the fall. Notably, Cycle Brewing plans to release a final bottled beer named “To Be Continued,” which will represent the last beer brewed at the downtown location.
Historical Context
Cycle Brewing opened its doors on August 15, 2013, and quickly earned a loyal following with popular brews such as Rare Dos, Cream and Sugar, and Crank. Initially, the brewery thrived in the booming craft beer market. However, it has faced increasing competition over recent years, not only from other craft breweries but also from establishments offering diverse beverage options and food menus. The company has also contended with rising rental costs, which have put additional pressure on its operations.
Industry trends may be contributing to the closure as well; beer sales in the United States have reported a decline for the first time since 2005, indicating broader challenges facing the craft beer sector. This change suggests a market consolidation, with consumers increasingly looking for variety beyond traditional craft beers.
Operational Transition
Despite closing the downtown taproom, Cycle Brewing intends to maintain its brewing operations at a warehouse located at 2135 Fifth Ave S. Dozark has expressed plans to eventually establish a retail-focused shop at this new location once zoning and permitting issues are resolved. This move aims to keep Cycle Brewing’s production alive even without the downtown taproom.
As Cycle Brewing moves towards its closure, it reflects the evolving landscape of the craft beer industry and the challenges that many breweries are currently facing. While the taproom in downtown St. Petersburg will soon be closed, the brand’s legacy and brewing will continue in a different format going forward.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- St Pete Rising
- Beer Street Journal
- I Love the Burg
- MSN News
- Google Search: Cycle Brewing closure St. Petersburg
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
