Central Standard Brewing in Milwaukee will shift its primary brewing operations to a redesigned area of the historic 20-acre Harley-Davidson campus beginning next year. The move consolidates the company’s facilities and honors the city’s brewing and industrial heritage.
New Facility: 73,000 Square Feet for Brewing and Tasting
The renovated space spans 73,000 square feet and will house a fully operational brewery and tasting room. Central Standard plans to break ground in late summer 2025. The company aims to open the new facility to the public by late spring 2026.
Founders Emphasize Roots in Milwaukee
“We founded Central Standard Brewing to be a part of Milwaukee and grow with it,” said Pat McQuillan, co-founder and president. “This partnership and expansion further validates that mission. With this acquisition, we are excited to deepen our roots in the city we love and demonstrate our commitment and investment in the Milwaukee community.”
Insight into Production, R&D, and Barrel Aging
The new location will offer visitors an inside look at Central Standard’s production process, research and development, and barrel-aging operations. It will also highlight the history of Harley-Davidson, creating a link between Milwaukee’s craft-beer scene and its iconic motorcycle heritage.
Consolidation and Increased Capacity
Currently, Central Standard operates across three facilities in the Milwaukee area. The expansion will bring all operations under one roof. Bottling and kegging capacity will increase twentyfold compared to the existing distillery. Central Standard produces a variety of spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, brandy, and ready-to-drink cocktails.
Strategic Growth Aligned with Restaurant Success
“With the success of our Crafthouse & Kitchen restaurants and the regional growth of our spirits and RTD products, this expansion provides an excellent time and opportunity for continued strategic growth,” added Evan Hughes, co-founder and CEO. “We are well positioned to exponentially increase our production capacity, continue to meet consumer demand, and engage with the Milwaukee community in new and exciting ways.”
Architectural Partner and Project Background
The project’s architect of record is HGA, based in Minnesota. HGA previously worked on Central Standard’s Crafthouse & Kitchen and on Davidson Park, which is also located on the historic Harley-Davidson site. Central Standard Distillery takes its name from the time zone where its founders grew up—both McQuillan and Hughes hail from Nebraska.
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