Legend Brewing Co. Sells Manchester Real Estate: Richmond’s Oldest Brewery’s Fate Uncertain
A Mixed-use Redevelopment Opportunity in the Heart of Manchester
Legend Brewing Co., a beloved institution in Richmond’s Manchester neighborhood, has listed its real estate for sale, leaving the future of Richmond’s oldest brewery in question.
The property, located at 321 W. Seventh St., encompasses the brewery’s headquarters, brewing hub, pub, and a 1.3-acre parcel. It is being marketed as a potential mixed-use redevelopment opportunity, with Berkadia’s Drew White, Carter Wood, and Cole Carns handling the listing.
A Neighborhood in Transition
Since its opening in 1994, Legend Brewing Co. has witnessed the significant transformation of the Manchester neighborhood. Residential development has surged, with luxury townhomes, high-rise apartments, and additional units planned in close proximity to the brewery.
This construction, combined with a slowdown in the craft beer industry, has affected Legend’s operations. Vice President of Operations Dave Gott explains, “Parking has become an issue with all the construction going on. It’s been a little rough on the pub.”
A Crossroads for Legend Brewing Co.
In response to the changing landscape, Legend has filed for rezoning to TOD-1, a designation that permits mixed-use developments with a height restriction of 12 stories. Gott emphasizes that the rezoning was a proactive measure, not an indication of an imminent sale or closure.
The brewery remains open, but Gott acknowledges the need to explore other options. “We’re keeping all options open at the moment,” he says.
Potential Uses and Future Development
The sale listing suggests that Legend’s land could accommodate an 11-story development featuring 300-plus apartment units above underground parking floors. Berkadia’s White notes that other potential uses include for-sale residential housing, retail, or a hotel.
While the brewery may not seek tenancy in a future development, its transition to a pure brewery has been successful, according to Gott. “We’ve got a different crowd of people that have been coming in. I don’t think (the change) has hurt us at all.”
Surrounding Developments and the Future of the Neighborhood
The Beach Co. is developing a six-story apartment building adjacent to Legend, while Avery Hall Investments is planning a twin-tower development nearby. These projects will further shape the landscape of the Transit-Oriented Nodal district.
As the Manchester neighborhood evolves, the fate of Legend Brewing Co. hangs in the balance. The sale of its real estate marks a potential turning point, but the legacy of Richmond’s oldest brewery remains uncertain.
