Hoster Brewing to Close Columbus Brewery on Oct. 31

Hoster Brewing Company will close its brewery and taproom in Columbus, Ohio, on Oct. 31, citing rising operating costs, higher rent and changing consumer habits.

Hoster Brewing Company will close its James Road brewery and taproom in Columbus, Ohio, on Oct. 31 after nearly two centuries of brand history. [Photo: Hoster Brewing Company Facebook]

The company said it will continue distributing wholesale kegged beer to bars and restaurants through the end of the year, or while supplies last. Hoster announced the closure on Sept. 23 and said it remains open to finding another brewery that could continue the Hoster brand.

Hoster's brewing history in Columbus dates to 1836, when German immigrant Louis Hoster founded what became City Brewery.

The company later became one of the larger brewers in the United States before shutting down during Prohibition.

The Hoster name was revived as a brewpub in the 1990s and later returned to the Columbus market under new ownership.

The current Hoster brewery and taproom at 653 N. James Road opened in 2024.

The company said its closure is linked to rapidly rising ingredient, material and energy costs, changing consumer habits and an upcoming multiyear lease renewal that would have increased rent.

Owner Dan Meyers said he hopes another brewery may eventually provide a new home for the Hoster brands.