San Diego-based Stone Brewing, one of the largest craft breweries in the United States, is transitioning ownership from Sapporo USA to Firestone Walker Brewing Company and Duvel Moortgat USA.
The company’s hospitality portfolio, including Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens at Liberty Station and taprooms in Little Italy, Oceanside, and Pasadena, is included in the sale, according to a press release. While an exact closing date has not been announced, the deal is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2026. The Liberty Station site will continue to operate as both a public-facing venue and an active brewing facility.
The deal includes the Stone brand and select hospitality locations, with both buyers stating that the brand’s identity will remain intact. The transition will take place over a multi-year period, with Sapporo continuing some production during that time. Customers can expect all locations to remain open, continuing to serve Stone’s core beer lineup and taproom offerings.
Production will gradually shift to Firestone Walker’s brewery in Paso Robles and Duvel’s U.S. brewery in the Kansas City area, while distribution will be split between the two companies. Firestone Walker will oversee the western U.S., and Duvel will handle regions east of the Rockies. Despite these operational changes, the taprooms are expected to remain consistent retail and hospitality locations.
“Stone is one of the most iconic brands in American craft beer and a pioneer of the West Coast IPA. For 30 years, they’ve built something legendary, a brand known for its commitment to quality, drive for innovation, and a true fighting spirit. We will honor what’s been built and carry it forward with the same authenticity and conviction that we love them for. The Stone heart keeps beating,” Nick Firestone, CEO of Firestone Walker, said in a press release. “This feels like a natural convergence of iconic craft brands. We inherit Stone’s storied reputation, and we’re committed to maintaining and further building its national relevance,” added Seraf De Smedt, President of Duvel USA.
