Motorworks announces closure; Hopes to reopen next year under new ownership

Motorworks Brewing announced that effective Tuesday, it would close its doors for the foreseeable future. An announcement posted on social media read as follows:

"Effective today, Motorworks Brewing will temporarily close for an extensive remodel. We hope to reopen on February 1, 2027, under new ownership and new management, with a refreshed space and an exciting new chapter ahead. We look forward to welcoming you back as soon as possible."

Motorworks opened its doors in 2014 and made a big splash with award-winning beers and live music in what was billed as Florida's largest beer garden. It was the first craft brewery in Bradenton and helped to revitalize the blighted industrial corridor on 9th St West.

Frank and Denise Tschida co-founded the brewery, purchasing a historic 1923 Hudson Motors automobile dealership to house their 27,000-square-foot fullproduction brewery and taproom. The name was inspired by the building's past as a dealership and Frank’s background in Sprint Car/ASA racing.

Despite earning over 100 championship medals, the Tschidas have faced significant financial challenges. As of May 2026, the brewery is involved in a $1.9 million foreclosure lawsuit filed by Seacoast National Bank, which seeks to sell the property and evict the tenants due to unpaid loans and property taxes.