Sawyer businesses and residents react to closing of Greenbush Brewery

SAWYER, Mi. -- Greenbush Brewery in Berrien County has served its final beverage and cooked up its last meal.

The downtown Sawyer restaurant announced its immediate closure on social media. Closing time at Greenbush brewery.

Monday marked the final day for this Sawyer staple, after nearly 15 years in business. Those who live and work in Sawyer were taken by surprise by the sudden closing. 

Greenbush Brewery made the abrupt announcement on social media just a few weeks before what would have been its 15th anniversary.

"I was pretty sad, they've been in the community a long time, people enjoy them, it's a great place to hang out, so I was kind of saddened for our community, as well as the employees that work there," said Jacquie Tippie, Sawyer resident.

The brewery's social media post saw hundreds of replies expressing unhappiness about the closing, some of which have been posted on the former restaurant's windows.

A piece of paper taped to the front door stated the closing is due to "impossible retail economy and hibernation of restaurant diners in the area."

For those who not only live in town but work there as well, the announcement invoked sadness, and a bit of confusion.

"No idea, we were wondering why because they had a good business and everything, and people loved it. It is sad. It's sad for the community, as well, because they are supportive," said Hina Patel, owner and manager of Sawyer Market.

ABC57 reached out to the brewery's owners for comment and didn't receive a reply.

Whether you're someone who came for the drinks, the food, or just the vibe and atmosphere, those who frequented Greenbush say this is a huge loss for the community.

"Our local businesses around rely on a lot of the people that come in from out of town and we are a destination location so once they go to the restaurants, they like to head to the shops and see what else is in the area, so that's revenue lost for the other business," said Tippie.

One person who didn't want to be interviewed on camera called this place an anchor of the town, and says the closing was a shock.