The craft brew industry has grown tremendously throughout the last two decades, and with it, so has the Michiana business community.

Traditionally a wine country, the lakeside area in southwest Michigan has long been filled with wineries, but in recent years, the beer boom has brought several taphouses like Round Barn, Tapistry and Greenbush to the western portion of Berrien County.

Across the stateline, Scotty’s Brewhouse, South Bend Brew Werks and Evil Czech Brewery have done a great job of drawing beer connoisseurs and foodies — driving up tourism and attracting countless people to the area on a regular basis.

The success of other regional breweries is no doubt the reason behind the excitement surrounding Lehman’s Orchard’s plans to build a brewery in Buchanan.

In addition to drawing tourists, if done correctly, Lehman’s brewery will offer a unique destination for Niles and Buchanan residents right in their backyard.

While there are plenty of options within a 30- to 45-minute drive from Niles and Buchanan residents, having the option to frequent a brewery that will likely fill with people offers a great social experience for the people who live here, without the long drive.

Like many other area breweries, Lehman’s will be taking advantage of locally-grown produce to create its brews, keeping the money right here in southwest Michigan.

Like so many who have shared their excitement through social media in the last several days since Lehman’s announcement, we are looking forward to the business opening, and encourage other business leaders to consider similar local opportunities when looking to expand their businesses.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.