Surly shuts down beer hall after employee tests positive for COVID-19

Surly Brewing Co. is temporarily closing its beer hall after an employee tested positive for COVID-19.

In a news release, the Minneapolis brewery said all customers and fellow workers who were in close contact with the employee have been notified. Surly is tentatively planning on reopening the beer hall on Oct. 13.

"We’re continuing to roll with the challenges of each day," the release stated. "We know you’re all going through this too. Thank you for your continued support as we navigate the uncertainty and keep our people safe."

Despite the beer hall closure, Surly said its coronavirus protocols will allow it to continue brewing and packaging beer as usual.

"Local liquor stores, bars and restaurants will be stocked and pouring," the brewery stated.

Last month Surly notified employees it would be closing the beer hall "indefinitely" starting Nov. 2, citing difficulty continuing business with COVID-19 restrictions in place. The notice came just after workers announced their intent to form a union; Surly management and employees reached an agreement on a union election process weeks later.

According to the release, the closure may affect employees’ union election process and the company is working with union representatives to get the election "completed safely as soon as possible."