Two of Chicago's largest craft breweries, Half Acre Beer Company and Maplewood Brewery & Distillery, announced on March 10, 2026, that they are merging to form a new unnamed beverage company. The businesses will continue operating independently at their taprooms while consolidating behind-the-scenes operations amid industry challenges. The merger is expected to finalize in the coming weeks.
Half Acre Beer Company, founded in 2007 by Gabriel Magliaro, and Maplewood Brewery & Distillery, opened in 2014 by Adam Cieslak along with brothers Paul Megalis and Ari Megalis, revealed their merger plans in a joint statement on social media. The new entity, described as a "premier Chicago beverage company," will allow both brands to maintain their distinct identities and taprooms—Half Acre in Lincoln Square at 2050 W. Balmoral Ave. and Maplewood in Logan Square, with a new brewpub planned for Glen Ellyn.
The announcement highlights complementary strengths: both produce craft beers and THC-infused nonalcoholic seltzers, while Maplewood also offers spirits including gin, rum, and bourbon, as well as canned cocktails. Notable beers include Half Acre's Daisy Cutter and Green Torch, and Maplewood's Son of Juice and Pulaski Pils. Under the merger, Maplewood's beer production is set to shift to Half Acre's facility, though the companies emphasize no changes to product taste.
This move comes amid a turbulent craft beer landscape in Chicago, marked by oversaturation following a decade of growth. At least five breweries, including Casa Humilde, have closed or announced closures in the past six weeks. Half Acre President and COO Kevin McGillen, who will serve as CEO of the new company, stated, "This is an opportunity to take advantage of a marketplace that is a bit tumultuous," clarifying it is not driven by desperation. Magliaro added, "It certainly just offers us this whole toolbox that we wouldn’t have otherwise... this is fun."
All founders will retain ownership and involvement. The joint statement reads, "Together, we’ll shape a new era of collaboration and creativity, rooted in the individuality of two of Chicago’s most prominent brands. We unite with deep appreciation for our teams, partners, communities, and customers." The merger reflects broader post-pandemic consolidation in Illinois' craft beer scene.
