As Easy as A-B-C

Appalachian Brewing Company Brings Beer and Good Cheer to Downtown Lititz

Stand in front of Appalachian Brewing Company, and you’ll know you’re standing in front of a building with stories to tell. The massive brick structure rises up beside old Norfolk Southern rail tracks, hinting at an industrial past. In its early days it was a factory, pumping out paper boxes. Then, it was home to Clair Brothers, world leaders in event staging and sound. Today, it’s a community destination – a place to share a beer, break bread, and bond with friends and family.

For those of us whose professions and passions center around the economic development of downtown Lititz, Appalachian Brewing Company’s arrival in town marked the beginning of an important new chapter. Back in 2012, when ABC opened, Lititz was lacking the food and beverage options that were essential for the town to be seen as a legitimate destination. ABC’s arrival marked an important step in the right direction, one that we feel was a springboard that helped bring us to the vibrant, thriving downtown we have today.

We recently spoke with Appalachian Brewing Company owner, Artie Tafoya, about why he chose to expand to Lititz. ABC has locations in Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, Gettysburg, and Shippensburg.

Venture Lititz: Why did you choose Lititz?

Artie: Appalachian Brewing Company was established in 1995, but we opened the brewery and brew pub in Harrisburg in 1997. I’ve always admired the town of Lititz, so when we were looking to add a location in the Lancaster Area, Lititz stood out as a great community with excellent community leaders.

Venture Lititz: What’s your best selling product?

Artie: Our burgers are amazing and outsell everything else on our varied menu.  Our best selling beer is Mt Lager, our best selling soda is Root Beer, and our best selling spirit is our 5 Year Bourbon Whiskey.

Venture Lititz: What product is your personal favorite?

Artie: I love our IPAs! From Hazies to West Coast IPAs, our brewers are awesome.

Venture Lititz: What made you open this particular business?

Artie: I’ve been in the brewery business since 1988.  When my family moved to central PA in 1997, we saw the potential of the area to support local products.  Lititz is no exception!

Venture Lititz: What’s your favorite spot in Lititz?

Artie: If I’m not enjoying a beer at ABC, I enjoy stopping into the Bully Pub for a real ale or something off the cuff. 

Venture Lititz: When you’re not at your shop/restaurant, where can we find you?

Artie: You can usually find me in my office in Mechanicsburg or one of our other locations, but I hope you find me playing golf!

*Pictured above is Appalachian Brewing Company General Manager, Gary Kocher.