Armed Forces Brewing Company selects Virginia for its first brewing facility, headquarters

RICHMOND, Va. (WSET) — Governor Glenn Youngkin made an exciting announcement on Friday, revealing that Armed Forces Brewing Company, a military tribute beer company, has chosen the City of Norfolk as the location for its headquarters and inaugural brewing facility. Virginia emerged victorious in a competitive selection process, beating out Florida and Maryland, and will soon see the creation of 47 new job opportunities.

“We are proud to welcome Armed Forces Brewing Company’s headquarters and first brewing facility to the Commonwealth,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Armed Forces recognizes that Virginia’s strategic location, business-friendly climate, and strong military and veteran presence in Hampton Roads will lead to success at its new home in the City of Norfolk, and we look forward to a successful partnership.”

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Armed Forces Brewing Company takes great pride in honoring the American military, including both active duty and veterans. The company comprises an impressive team that includes an award-winning brewmaster, accomplished individuals from the restaurant and hospitality industry, and military veterans, including a world-renowned U.S. Navy SEAL, the company's products are available in stores in eight states and in 36 states by online mail ordering and shipping.

“We are excited to open our flagship brewery and taproom in Norfolk, a great American city with a large population of veterans, active-duty military, and their families,” said Armed Forces Brewing Company CEO Alan Beal. “Virginia is one of the best states to open a brewing business in. Governor Youngkin called me and encouraged our team to take a close look at what Virginia has to offer, and we did. This is now our home base, and we’re committed to employing veterans and playing a vital part of the patriotic community in Norfolk.”

The company plans to steadily expand its reach and has already received approval for distribution in retailers such as Military Exchange stores, Walmart, Publix, Winn-Dixie, Fresh Market, and H-E-B stores in Texas. They also plan to launch their products in Sam's Clubs in the Fall of 2023.

Demonstrating a commitment to military veterans, Armed Forces Brewing Company aims to employ a minimum of 70% of its workforce from the talented pool of American veterans.

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“Winning this project again demonstrates that Virginia’s logistics infrastructure and proximity to customers and suppliers are competitive advantages for companies in the food and beverage processing industry, the Commonwealth’s second-largest manufacturing sector,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Hampton Roads is known around the world for its distinguished military presence, and we are confident Norfolk will provide the talent Armed Forces Brewing Company is seeking.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership played a pivotal role in securing this project for the City of Norfolk, working in collaboration with the local government and the Hampton Roads Alliance. The project will also receive assistance through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and financial support to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities.

You can find out more about the Armed Forces Brewing Company through their website here.