Bold Rock Cidery Closes Asheville Taproom Due to Tropical Storm Helene

Bold Rock Hard Cider has closed its Asheville taproom due to losses incurred from Tropical Storm Helene and ongoing market difficulties. The local service industry faces severe challenges, including a reported 70% decline in tourism and significant revenue losses.

Bold Rock Hard Cider has announced the closure of its Asheville taproom, attributing the decision to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene and ongoing market difficulties. The announcement was made on December 6 via the company’s social media platforms. “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,” the statement reads.

The service industry in Asheville has faced significant challenges following the storm. The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority reported a staggering 70% decrease in tourism and an estimated $584 million in revenue losses. Numerous food and beverage establishments continue to struggle, with some remaining closed or operating with significantly reduced staff and offerings. Notably, Wicked Weed Brewing also faced difficulties, leading to the indefinite closure of its Funkatorium and Cultura locations in the South Slope brewing district, further illustrating the adverse effects of the storm on local businesses.

Founded in 2012 by John Washburn and Brian Shanks, Bold Rock is known for its award-winning craft cider sourced from locally grown apples. The company expanded into North Carolina in 2015, launching a taproom in Mills River, and opened a sizeable taproom in downtown Asheville in 2021. Despite the closure of the Asheville taproom, the Mills River and Charlotte locations remain operational, and Bold Rock cider is available for retail purchase throughout various states.

The closure of Bold Rock’s Asheville taproom highlights the extensive economic impact of Tropical Storm Helene on the local service industry, particularly in Buncombe County. The storm resulted in a significant decrease in tourism, which is vital for the area’s economy. As businesses like Bold Rock and Wicked Weed Brewing navigate these challenges, the overall health of the local economy remains precarious. Understanding the relationship between such natural disasters and their effects on small businesses is critical in assessing future risks and support for the impacted industries.

In conclusion, the closure of Bold Rock’s Asheville taproom reflects the broader challenges faced by the local service industry after Tropical Storm Helene. With significant declines in tourism and revenues, many establishments continue to struggle. As Bold Rock shifts its focus to remaining operational venues in North Carolina, the situation underscores the vulnerability of local businesses in the face of natural disasters and the ongoing need for community support and recovery efforts.

Original Source: www.citizen-times.com