News Summary
1718 Brewing, a craft brewery from Ocracoke, has decided to abandon its expansion into Manteo after a challenging acquisition process. The brewery faced significant obstacles, including zoning denials from the local government, which ultimately resulted in the property’s sale to new owners. Although local support existed, the brewery’s plans were stymied by the town’s lack of cooperation. 1718 Brewing is now exploring other Outer Banks towns for future expansion.
Manteo’s Brewing Expansion Abandoned
1718 Brewing, a craft brewery based in Ocracoke, has officially abandoned plans to expand its operations into Manteo following a lengthy and contentious acquisition process. The decision comes after the brewery faced significant challenges and frustrations in negotiations with the Town of Manteo, which ultimately led to the property’s sale to new owners.
The more-than four-acre property, previously considered for 1718 Brewing’s second location, was sold to Manteo 525 LLC for $750,000 in May. Manteo 525 LLC had made a bid on the property in 2024 and returned with a fresh offer once 1718 Brewing announced its withdrawal.
Frustration with Town Cooperation
Garick Kalna, vice president of 1718 Brewing, expressed disappointment regarding the lack of cooperation from the Town of Manteo throughout the nine-month acquisition process. The brewery’s expansion efforts were hindered by multiple roadblocks from the local government, including a denial of a zoning request by the Manteo Town Council in February due to concerns related to the town’s wastewater infrastructure.
The brewery initially viewed Manteo as an attractive location for its second site due to its close proximity to Ocracoke and the presence of an available wastewater treatment plant. Moreover, Manteo holds significance as the home of North Carolina’s first craft brewery, which 1718 Brewing believed would enhance their brand and marketability.
Local Support vs. Town Opposition
Despite positive support from the wider Outer Banks community, Kalna noted that Manteo’s local leadership had not demonstrated sufficient support for the brewery’s business plan. In attempts to facilitate the brewery’s entry into the town, Commissioner Michael Basnight had proposed creating an overlay district to address zoning issues, but this initiative was ultimately unsuccessful.
As 1718 Brewing pivots away from Manteo, Kalna has indicated that the brewery is now exploring potential expansion opportunities in other Outer Banks towns. There has been interest from various representatives and property owners in the region who are reaching out to the brewery for future business ventures.
No Specific Plans for New Owners
Currently, Manteo 525 LLC has not disclosed any specific plans for the property they acquired. However, a residential project is reportedly under consideration. As 1718 Brewing moves forward to assess other locations, the brewing community and local business entities continue to rally behind their vision for growth.
While the situation represents a setback for 1718 Brewing, it underscores the complexities of navigating municipal regulations and community relations in the realm of business expansion.
Future Prospects
1718 Brewing remains determined to find a suitable location for its next brew house as they consider various options in nearby towns. The continued outreach from local representatives highlights the brewery’s potential appeal within the Outer Banks, aiming to ensure the business can flourish without the hindrances faced in Manteo.
As the Outer Banks area evolves, 1718 Brewing is poised to adapt, encouraging a spirit of collaboration and support from the community as they seek new avenues for success in the craft brewing landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Major Drug Operation in Moyock: Currituck County Law Enforcement Strikes
Additional Resources
- WTKR: Ocracoke’s 1718 Brewing Disappointed with Manteo Expansion
- Wikipedia: Craft Brewing
- Coastland Times: Manteo Commissioners Revisit Brewery Proposal
- Google Search: 1718 Brewing
- Coastland Times: Jamboree Event News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Craft Brewery
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
