Kansas City Welcomes Big Grove Brewery Expansion

News Summary

Big Grove Brewery, known as one of the fastest-growing craft breweries in the Midwest, is set to expand its operations by opening a new taproom in Kansas City. This marks the brewery’s sixth location and emphasizes its dedication to reaching new markets beyond Iowa, where it currently operates four taprooms. The innovative ownership model will allow local store directors to become co-owners, fostering community engagement. Scheduled to open in 2026, this expansion coincides with increased competition in Kansas City’s craft beer scene.

Kansas City Welcomes Big Grove Brewery Expansion

Big Grove Brewery, an Iowa-based brewery recognized as one of the fastest-growing craft breweries in the Midwest, has officially announced its plans to open a new taproom in Kansas City. This expansion marks the brewery’s sixth location and is set to open in the summer of 2026.

The precise address for the new taproom has not yet been disclosed, but it will be located on the Kansas side of the metro area. This decision underscores Big Grove’s commitment to expanding its reach beyond its home state of Iowa.

Current Operations and Future Plans

Big Grove Brewery currently operates four taprooms across Iowa, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Des Moines, and Solon. Additionally, the brewery is set to open its first location outside of Iowa in Omaha, Nebraska, this summer. The Omaha location will also host Big Grove Coffee Co., a new venture aimed at serving the growing market of non-drinkers. The brewery distributes its products across six states: Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas, catering to a diverse audience.

Innovative Ownership Model

As part of its growth strategy, Big Grove Brewery plans to implement a new ownership model where store directors will have the opportunity to become co-owners. This initiative aims to enhance local leadership and foster community involvement. This model will first be introduced in Omaha, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, and Kansas City locations.

History and Accolades

Founded in 2013, Big Grove Brewery opened its first taproom in Solon, Iowa, featuring elevated pub-style cuisine that appeals to craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The brewery’s taprooms are known for their spacious patios, on-site brewing capabilities, and full-service kitchens. Over the years, Big Grove has established a reputation for its quality craft beers, winning multiple awards, including medals at the Great American Beer Festival.

The food menu at Big Grove locations typically includes a variety of options such as wings, mac and cheese, Parmesan fries, burgers, salads, and pizzas, reflecting a commitment to providing a complete dining experience alongside their beverage offerings.

Local Competition and Community Engagement

Kansas City’s beer scene is becoming increasingly competitive, as local breweries, such as KC Bier Co., are also planning expansions. KC Bier Co. is set to open a Bavarian-style Biergarten in Lenexa in 2026, further enriching the region’s craft beer landscape.

Big Grove Brewery’s expansion into Kansas City signifies a strategic move to tap into new markets while strengthening its community ties. Through its innovative ownership model and wide range of offerings, Big Grove is well-positioned to continue its rapid growth among craft breweries.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Press-Citizen
• Kansas City Star
• KCCI
• The Gazette
• Craft Brewing Business
• Wikipedia: Big Grove Brewery
• Google Search: Big Grove Brewery
• Google Scholar: Big Grove Brewery
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Big Grove Brewery
• Google News: Big Grove Brewery

Author: HERE Kansas City