MCKINNEY (WBAP/KLIF)- TUPPS Brewery is relocating and expanding its campus to the historic Mill District of Downtown McKinney. The campus will include a tasting taproom in the original 120-year-old grain milling building, a state-of-the-art production facility and a retail shopping area featuring local craftsman.
“The City of McKinney is committed to revitalizing the eastside of our historic downtown area and I could not think of a better partner than TUPPS to be the catalyst. TUPPS will bring much needed energy to this area that will attract other businesses and expand our historic downtown footprint,” said Mayor George Fuller.
The McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC) and the McKinney Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will contribute to the project.
MCDC has approved a grant for $11,333,262 to fund the construction of the facilities. According to the agreement, TUPPS Brewery will be a tenant on the property, paying rent for at least 30 years toward its purchase of the building improvements. MCDC will own the 4.3-acre parcel of land where the project will be developed.
“TUPPS has a strong commitment to the community and continues to enhance our city’s quality of life through live music, family-friendly events, and entertainment,” said MCDC President Cindy Schneible. “This project will create a world-class cultural and entertainment destination for residents and visitors alike.”
MEDC contributed approximately $600,000 for the expansion of manufacturing and production at the new site.
“The McKinney grain site is a perfect location to build our forever home as it fits the TUPPS vibe and allows us to meet increased demand for our products while providing more space for additional customers visiting the brewery” says Keith Lewis, TUPPS Brewery Founder and President.
Lewis said TUPPS Brewery is the 15th largest craft brewery in Texas and has grown from producing 350 barrels a year to annual production of 7,800 barrels in 2019. More than 10,000 barrels will be produced in 2020 and growth is projected to reach 15,000 barrels in 2024.
