With patrons trying to relax and have fun whilst porting their favorite craft beer in glass pints, it can be stressful with kids potentially throwing a tantrum or running under foot. So some breweries are starting to say ‘no kids’ at certain times, and customers applaud.
The craft beer boom of the 2010s gave us a lot of fun… infinite alternatives to evil-empire brands and their vapid beer, thousands of jobs, and fun backdrops for socializing. But as the boom and core customers aged, breweries became a hangout for a changing demographic, people with kids, lots of kids. Little ones of all ages, from newborns to preteens, are a common sight. It’s a well-established trend that’s often bemoaned but, in most cases, accepted. Of late, a handful of breweries have begun to change the narrative. For some that means children are uninvited in taprooms after a certain time like 2 p.m.
Many of us love a child’s energy and innocence, and we wish we could bring them everywhere but many times it is just not appropriate or optimal. Mood, vibe, safety and space are some of the variables. For example, when parties come in with multiple kids, they can monopolize seats while not drinking. Many owners feel it will improve the my bottom line, but that is still to be reviewed when some family groups and pods choose to socialize elsewhere due to restrictions.
The decision can have positive side effects and or a negative impact on revenues, particularly during holidays when schools and daycares are closed. Business picks up but with reduced staff plus elevated chaos, it can be a mess. Some have considered making venues 18 and up but ultimately 12:00 noon and 2 p.m. seems to be the current trend so families can enjoy local spots and eats.
Should there be a no-kids policy on weekends or a “no-strollers policy”? Those groups with strollers, even double strollers, can block walkways and are tripping hazards. Many a young taproom or brewery are simply not big enough, especially in dense metro-areas. Tables ten to be high-tops, seats are limited, and a swarm of kids can put staff in awkward positions. Some inconsiderate parents have babies on their laps during football games when it’s shoulder to shoulder or sit at the bar with kids in their own seat. In some states, it’s just not legal as well.
It seems a handful of craft breweries nationwide have taken on no-kids policies or are considering something similar. There are many alternatives for thirsty parents with kids in tow… Some breweries, halls or restaurants have playgrounds for kids and sometimes drunk adults. Between insurance and overhead, that business model just isn’t sustainable.
What’s Next?
“Now do dogs!” many are exclaiming. Many of us agree… except for service dogs of course.
Reception to these announcements tends to be positive. Many comments online have expressed thanks and hopes that more breweries, even beer-based hospitality locations would follow suit.