Hospitality Union Says Surly Closure Is 'Disgusting And Illegal'

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A hospitality union in Minnesota says Surly Brewing Company's move to close its beer hall is "disgusting and illegal."

On Wednesday, Surly announced that it will shut down its beer hall "indefinitely" starting Nov. 2. The Minneapolis-based beer maker says that beer halls and pandemics "don't mix," blaming the coronavirus crisis.

Surly management admitted the "timing of this announcement is not ideal." On Monday, Surly employees announced their intention to form a union.

"We respect their decision to turn to an outside organization for representation and will continue the dialogue. That does not change the fact that our plans to close the Beer Hall were put in place weeks ago with the announcement planned for this week," the company stated.

"As we close the doors of the Beer Hall, we're still moving forward. We'll adapt, change, pivot, and change again. Please support your local bars and restaurants as they face the tough times ahead."

Unite Here Local 17 said the brewery's action was "clear retaliation" against its employees forming a union.

Surly faced backlash after announcing the closure on social media.

According to Surly, the beer hall's revenues are down 82 percent compared to this time last year.