Guinness to Close Baltimore Brewery Amid Cost-Cutting Measures
Guinness is shutting down its Open Gate Brewery in Baltimore as part of cost-cutting efforts by owner Diageo. The brewery, which opened in 2018, will cease operations by the end of the year, with its last day open to the public on Nov. 1.
The move comes as Diageo implements a $1 billion savings initiative that has already resulted in over 2,000 job cuts. The savings from this plan will be reinvested into key brands like Guinness to ensure long-term growth and success.
Despite the closure of the Baltimore brewery, Guinness remains committed to bringing its iconic beer to consumers worldwide. The brand still operates a brewery in Chicago, which opened in 2023.
The decision to close the Baltimore brewery was a difficult one, according to a Diageo spokesperson. However, the changing consumer behavior and economic challenges made it unsustainable to keep the facility operational. The company remains grateful to everyone who contributed to the brewery’s success and is dedicated to supporting its employees and the local community.
Diageo is focusing on revitalizing its North American business, which experienced an 8.4% sales decline in the 2026 fiscal year. Despite this, Guinness saw 4% organic growth in the beer business sector.