At 26 Years, Pike Brewing Expands Its Ownership and Space

Pike Brewing Company turned 26 on Saturday, and toasted with big news on two accounts. First, the founders and owners Charles and Rose Ann Finkel announced that they are expanding their ownership team to include three longterm employees: Drew Gillespie, Vice President Operations; Patti Baker, Vice President Controller; and Gary Marx, Executive Chef. This "selling in," as the Finkels term it, is a direct contrast to the increasing news nationwide of beer giants absorbing craft lines, including Anheiser-Busch's purchase of Elysian Brewing back in January.

Next, the Finkels report that the company will be expanding straight up. "We will occupy an additional 5,500 square feet space directly above The Pike Pub on the atrium level with direct access from First Avenue and The Pike Place Market Atrium. The entire space will be remodeled in the Pike style with antique breweriana, an extension of Pike's Micro Brewery Museum," they stated in a press release. Expect six additional 60 barrel fermenters, a new tank, and "an exciting restaurant concept." Construction will start late this year, estimating completion by spring of 2016.