Cristie ThomasOur very own Marietta Brewing Company celebrated 20 years of business this past November. Starting up in 1997, the Marietta Brewing Co. has experienced a few shifts in leadership, but current owners Tony & Dana Styer have had the reigns for the past 7 years and have been vital visionaries for the future of MBC.
Community involvement is a focus of MBC’s leadership – As one of the primary sponsors of our Rivers, Trails, and Ales Festival and former Red, White, & Brews Festival, MBC maintains active participation in Main Street programs. Tony is a former director on the Main Street Board, has hosted Main Street as a featured nonprofit twice for their Community Pints monthly fundraisers, and is dedicated to doing what he can to maintain a status as a tourist attraction, serving as an anchor for downtown visitors.
We are happy to celebrate the 20 Year Anniversary of one of our partners, the Marietta Brewing Company! Check out our interview below with owner Tony Styer and read some of his reflections on this milestone for MBC.
The Marietta Brewing Company has a great history in Marietta. What’s the story behind the founding of the Brewery that now stands today on Front Street?
It started back in 1997 when a few guys got together and wanted to start a restaurant/brewpub. The story I’ve heard is that the original owners were trying to come up with a name, and while construction crews were digging under this property they pulled up an old Marietta Brewery bottle, so they named it the Marietta Brewing Company.
Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of your business is a great milestone. What does this anniversary mean to you? How is MBC celebrating?
A lot has happened in this building in the past 20 years. This anniversary means commitment. We’ve been here for 20 years and we’ll be here for another 20. To celebrate, we’ve come out with a new branding package with the help of Just A Jar Design Press. The new logo pays homage to the last one that was here for 20 years but gives it a modern touch.
Small businesses are known for their support of the local community, and Marietta Brewing Co. is no different with your Community Pints program. How has this program impacted the nonprofits you feature each month?
It’s really helped us build a stronger relationship with our community. Community Pints is so much more than a fundraiser; it’s a chance to have a conversation with your neighbors over a pint and learn about the impacts these organizations are making in our area!
How would you describe Marietta Brewing Co. to potential new diners who haven’t yet heard about your restaurant?
We’re a casual dining brewpub serving up great American pub fare and locally crafted ales. From appetizers and salads to burgers and pizzas, you’ll find something you love! Our Char-Grilled wings are a local favorite!
The ability to participate in downtown events is a great benefit to the downtown business owner. What would you say some of your favorite events have been thus far?
I would say the Rivers, Trails & Ales Festival is our favorite here at MBC! For obvious reasons, but it’s a great chance to showcase the outdoor recreation scene that is booming right now in Southeast Ohio! We even make a special beer for it every year!
What words of wisdom would you share with aspiring business owners, interested in opening a business downtown?
Take your time, do your research, and trust in yourself.
Is there anything you wish the Marietta community knew about your restaurant, about downtown, and/or about owning a local business?
We love our downtown and we love that we are in the heart of it. There are a lot of great businesses located downtown with passionate store owners who are just trying to pursue the American dream. We’re happy to call them neighbors. Small businesses give this town it’s personality. Support them and shop small.