Companies allege that Virginia brewery, which blamed financial issues on ‘woke mob’, has outstanding debts

The CEO of Armed Forces Brewing Company recently announced his decision to move the brewery out of Norfolk, attributing the decision to pressure from what he referred to as a “woke mob.” However, in the aftermath of this announcement, several businesses have come forward claiming that the brewery owes them money.

Among these businesses is Wisconsin-based hop grower Matt Miles, who provided over $2,300 worth of hops to the brewery in January but has yet to receive payment for his product. Miles, a Marine Corps veteran, expressed disappointment in the situation, highlighting his previous positive interactions with the company. Similarly, Freelance Security LLC President and CEO Vernon Clifton reported that his company had not been paid for providing security services at the brewery and was considering legal action.

A notice from the Norfolk Treasurer’s Office has been posted on the brewery’s door, indicating that the company owes close to $13,000 in real estate taxes. Additionally, an SEC filing revealed that the company had incurred losses of nearly $2 million prior to opening its Norfolk location. Despite attempts to reach out to the CEO of Armed Forces Brewing Company for comment, there has been no response from the company.

The brewery’s decision to relocate out of state comes amid ongoing backlash primarily centered around the company’s perceived stance on the LGBTQ community. This criticism was sparked by a member of the company’s leadership who had made remarks regarding the Navy’s use of drag performers as military recruiters. The CEO maintains that the company is not anti-LGBTQ but cites pressure from a “woke agenda” as a driving factor behind the relocation.

While the brewery has refrained from disclosing the new location or relocation timeline, it has emphasized the need to operate in a more favorable business environment. The decision to move away from Norfolk has prompted legal concerns among vendors and service providers who claim they have not been compensated for their contributions. Despite the challenges faced by these businesses, the CEO’s decision to relocate reflects a broader trend of companies seeking more hospitable operational landscapes in the face of social and economic pressures.

As the situation unfolds, it raises questions about the impact of social activism on business decisions and the importance of maintaining financial commitments to stakeholders. The brewery’s shift in response to external pressures underscores the complexities of navigating societal expectations while balancing operational sustainability. Ultimately, the brewery’s decision to relocate serves as a cautionary tale for businesses navigating the intersection of social issues and profitability.