Nicolet Ale Works, De Pere’s community-inspired craft brewery, announced today that it will open a full-scale production brewery, upscale taproom and outdoor beer venue in downtown De Pere.
The project will be located at 301 Main Ave., marking a major milestone as the first brewery in downtown De Pere and a key addition to the evolving Alley District.
The new facility, slated to open in fall 2026, represents the next chapter for Nicolet Ale Works, which has grown rapidly thanks to strong local support since launching its small-batch brewing operation.
“De Pere has supported us from the start, and we got a lot of questions on where our permanent taproom would be. Now we have an answer,” said co-owner and head brewmaster Ben Rank. “We’re excited to continue growing right here at home and to build a space that reflects the community that helped shape us.”
Co-owners Ben Rank and Jeremy Voss are partnering with community stakeholders and local leaders to bring the vision to life.
The new brewery will feature a full-scale production operation designed to increase brewing capacity, an upscale taproom highlighting locally crafted beers and community gathering, a spacious outdoor beer venue designed to be dog-friendly and family-welcoming and a prominent location in the Alley District, enhancing downtown De Pere’s walkability and destination appeal.
“This project is the perfect reflection of De Pere’s entrepreneurial spirit,” said Tina Quigley, executive director of Definitely De Pere. “Nicolet Ale Works is rooted in community, and this new investment strengthens the vibrancy, creativity and economic growth happening in our downtown.”
“The Alley District is designed to be a destination for businesses that bring people together, and Nicolet Ale Works is a perfect fit for that vision,” said Tom Gavic, property owner and developer of the Alley District. “We’re thrilled to welcome De Pere’s first downtown brewery and to help create a space where residents and visitors can gather, celebrate, and enjoy the heart of our community.”
“This is an exciting moment for the City of De Pere,” said Mayor James Boyd. “Nicolet Ale Works’ expansion strengthens our local economy, supports small-business growth, and adds a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors. We’re proud to see this level of investment and creativity taking shape in our downtown.”
Nicolet Ale Works invites residents, supporters and beer lovers to follow along as the project develops.
Construction updates, behind-the-scenes content and community sneak peeks will be shared on the brewery’s social media channels throughout 2025 and 2026.
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