Crossroads welcoming two KC brewery expansions
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The signs are up. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
The beer scene in the Crossroads is changing as some breweries close shop and others from around the metro plan expansions.
Why it matters: Craft beer is contracting nationwide, but this downtown neighborhood known for its high number of breweries is welcoming the newcomers with open arms.
The big picture: Martin City Brewing Co., a south KC spot known for its pizza and brews, is coming to the first level of 1914 Main apartments (formerly City Club) with plans to operate a second-floor rooftop space.
- Meanwhile, BKS Artisan Ales is opening a microbrewery at 1701 McGee St. — just a few doors down from Casual Animal Brewing Co.
- These expansions follow the recent closures of Double Shift Brewing Co. in March and Brick River Cider Co. last November.
Zoom out: The nationwide $28.8 billion craft beer industry, which grew for decades, now faces a 4%-5% decrease in production with brewery closings outpacing openings.
Zoom in: Brewery closings in KC have been scattered across the metro. Meanwhile, the biggest local names expand.
- Case in point: KC Bier Co. is building a massive new Biergarten in Lenexa.
What they're saying: "The more the merrier," Casual Animal owner and Crossroads Community Association board member Lara Gray tells Axios.
- Crossroads businesses have "grit, innovation, and vision," Gray adds. "Anyone who can see that, feel that, and want to join this hyper-local and creative community is welcomed."
- BKS owner Mary Rooney tells Axios, "I see our spot helping to bring more tourism to the Crossroads and hopefully generating more traffic to our surrounding neighborhood businesses."
What's next: Rooney says the new BKS location is "very close" and is only waiting on a health inspection and liquor license.
- The Kansas City Star reports Martin City plans to open in spring 2026.