Crushing tariffs force Campobello Island couple to consider moving brewery to Lubec
Locals in Lubec are urging neighboring craft brewery Mother Mushroom to move into the vacant storefront left behind by the town’s only brewing company, Lubec Brewing Co., after it closed last month.
The 2,200‑sq‑ft building on Main Street, which had produced a line of locally distributed lagers and IPAs, has been empty for more than a month. The closure came after the owner announced that the business was no longer financially sustainable, citing a decline in sales and rising operating costs. The loss of the brewery has left a noticeable hole in the town’s small‑business landscape and a ripple effect on the local economy.
“We’ve lost a key piece of Lubec’s identity,” said long‑time resident and local shop owner Mark Phelps. “People used to come here to grab a pint, watch the game, and feel part of a community. It’s a big blow to have the space empty.” Phelps added that several residents have been signing a petition urging Mother Mushroom Brewery, a popular Portland‑based brewer, to take over the property.
Mother Mushroom Brewery, known for its experimental hop blends and community‑driven events, has previously supplied beer to the Lubec bar scene. The brewery’s owner, Sarah Kim, acknowledged the town’s enthusiasm but noted that the logistical and regulatory hurdles of relocating would need to be addressed. “We’re happy to hear how much Lubec loves craft beer and would be open to exploring the possibility of expanding our footprint here,” Kim said. “But moving to a new location requires careful planning, zoning approvals, and a new supply chain.”
City officials in Lubec have also voiced support for a potential handover. “The downtown corridor needs a vibrant business that draws visitors and keeps people in town,” said Mayor Linda Carney. “We’re exploring all options, including offering incentives or assisting with the lease if a local brewery like Mother Mushroom comes in.”
The town council will meet next Thursday to discuss a proposal that would grant the brewery a long‑term lease with reduced rent for the first year. If the plan is approved, the council hopes the space can be back in use within six months.
For now, Lubec’s Main Street remains a quiet reminder of a local tradition that many hope to revive with a new brewing partner. The community continues to monitor the conversation, hoping that Mother Mushroom’s involvement will preserve the town’s craft‑beer heritage while invigorating its downtown economy.
