Bold Rock Hard Cider has closed its Asheville taproom due to losses from Tropical Storm Helene, impacting its operations amidst broader challenges faced by local businesses in Buncombe County, which experienced significant declines in tourism revenue. Although the Asheville location is closed, Bold Rock’s Mills River and Charlotte taprooms remain open. The storm has adversely affected multiple establishments in the area, highlighting ongoing struggles within the local service industry.
Bold Rock Hard Cider has officially announced the closure of its Asheville taproom in light of the adverse effects caused by Tropical Storm Helene. On December 6, the company communicated this decision through its social media platforms, expressing regret over the closure: “It is with sadness that we announce the closing of our Bold Rock Asheville taproom. After the losses from Hurricane Helene and continued market challenges, we are unable to continue operating in this location. We have loved being a part of the Asheville community and being able to welcome so many through our doors.” Founded in 2012 by John Washburn and Brian Shanks, Bold Rock initially emerged from Nellysford, Virginia. The company expanded into North Carolina in 2015 and opened a substantial taproom in downtown Asheville in 2021. While the Asheville location closes, their Mills River and Charlotte taprooms remain operational, with ciders available for retail in numerous states. This decision reflects ongoing challenges within Asheville’s service industry, particularly following recent impacts from natural disasters.
Moreover, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority reported significant losses in tourism, estimating a 70% decline and a staggering $584 million in revenue lost within the county as of November. Many establishments in the food and beverage sectors continue to operate with limitations or are closed entirely in the aftermath of the storm. The craft beer community has similarly felt the strain, with establishments such as Wicked Weed Brewing announcing indefinite closures and staff layoffs. Considering the regional economic landscape marked by continued hardships, Bold Rock’s decision reflects broader difficulties faced by local businesses following the storm.
The closure of Bold Rock’s Asheville taproom highlights the severe impact of Tropical Storm Helene on local businesses in Buncombe County. This region has recently suffered a steep decline in tourism and revenue, exacerbating the challenges already faced by the service industry. The situation highlights the interconnectedness of local economies and the heavy toll that natural disasters can inflict on small businesses. Bold Rock’s response to these challenges underscores the resilience of craft beverage producers in navigating a precarious market while remaining committed to their communities. The company’s founding in Virginia and subsequent expansion to North Carolina is emblematic of the growth of the craft cider industry in recent years, despite recent setbacks. In light of economic struggles highlighted by local reports of a 70% tourism decline and businesses like Wicked Weed Brewing also announcing closures, Bold Rock’s operational decisions reflect wider trends of financial strain caused by external factors such as environmental events.
In conclusion, the announcement of Bold Rock’s Asheville taproom closure serves as a poignant indicator of the ongoing economic challenges facing local businesses due to Tropical Storm Helene. The significant losses in tourism and revenues reported in Buncombe County create an increasingly difficult landscape for the food and beverage industry. While Bold Rock maintains operational locations in Mills River and Charlotte, the loss of the Asheville taproom is a testament to the resilience of local businesses striving to adapt amidst adversity. Such closures impact community engagement and the associated economic benefits, reinforcing the importance of supporting local businesses in times of crisis.
Original Source: www.citizen-times.com
