Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling Acquires Alarmist Brewing
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Editorial Dept.
Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling Company has acquired Alarmist Brewing, uniting two respected craft beverage companies with a shared passion for quality and community. The deal will bring Pollyanna’s brewing and hospitality experience to Sauganash – while continuing Alarmist’s celebrated beer legacy. The acquisition reflects a shared vision of creating memorable experiences for beer lovers while honoring the community that supported Alarmist from the beginning.
In a press release, Pollyanna confirmed that following the acquisition, core Alarmist beer brands will return to distribution later this year: allowing fans to enjoy them once again at bars, restaurants, and retail outlets across Chicagoland.
Alarmist Brewing is best known for Le Jus, the first Hazy IPA to win GABF Gold when the category debuted in 2018.
The acquisition of Alarmist Brewing marks a significant strategic expansion for Pollyanna, bringing its award‑winning suburban model into the heart of Chicago’s Sauganash neighborhood.
This partnership unites two companies with a shared commitment to world‑class beer, award‑winning spirits, and community‑driven hospitality.
Alarmist Brewing has earned national recognition for its medal‑winning portfolio, including Le Jus and Pantless, while Pollyanna brings eight Great American Beer Festival medals and a growing reputation for high‑quality craft spirits.
“Alarmist built something truly special in Sauganash,” said Ryan Weidner, President & CEO. “Their commitment to quality and community aligns perfectly with Pollyanna’s values. We’re honored to carry their legacy forward while bringing our own strengths in brewing and distilling to the neighborhood.”
“We are thrilled that Pollyanna is continuing Le Jus, Pantless, and our other beers,” said Gary Gulley, Founder of Alarmist Brewing. “The reopening of the taproom with a restaurant will be a game changer for our friends in the Sauganash neighborhood. On a personal note, I’m also thrilled that Ryan has offered me free lifetime beer and pizza as of this press release — no take backs.”
Pollyanna will invest in guest‑facing improvements to refresh the Sauganash taproom experience. These enhancements will focus on creating a warm, community‑oriented environment, improved hospitality flow, and a pizza‑driven, artisanal shareables menu designed to complement the beverage program. Because of this work, the taproom will remain closed for now, with a planned reopening in late 2026 as a Pollyanna location.
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