Downtown Akron is about to get a familiar buzz back, and no, it’s not just the sound of city traffic. Akronym Brewing, once a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene, is reopening its doors, and the community couldn’t be more excited.
From Homebrew Dreams to a Downtown Staple
The Akronym story began in 2013 when childhood friends Shawn and Josh bought a Brew Magic homebrewing system. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a passion project, especially after fellow cyclist and engineer Aaron joined the mix. Soon, they found themselves not only brewing beer but also brewing up big plans.
The name “Akronym” itself came naturally. After joking about acronyms for their beer names, they realized it was the perfect play on words to tie their brewery back to its hometown of Akron. By 2016, they had secured a spot at 58 East Market Street, right in the heart of downtown.
Craft Beer at the Core
From the start, Akronym Brewing set out to be serious about craft. Their tap list featured a wide range of styles: crisp pilsners, smooth lagers, hop-forward IPAs, hazy New Englands, and the occasional bold stout.
The brewery quickly became known for beer that appealed to both casual drinkers and dedicated craft fans. Beyond the brews, Akronym also offered a food menu featuring hearty, shareable favorites, making it a go-to stop for both dinner and drinks before a downtown night out.
A Sudden Pause
Despite its popularity, Akronym closed its Akron location in late 2024, marking the third brewery to shut down in the city that year. For regulars, the news came as a shock. But behind the scenes, the closure reflected the tough reality many small breweries face: rising costs, shifting markets, and the challenge of keeping up momentum.
A New Beginning
Fast-forward to today, and Akronym Brewing is ready for a comeback. Under the new ownership of The Brew Kettle, the brewery is set to reopen stronger than ever. Even better, Shawn Adams, one of the original brewers who built Akronym’s reputation, will be back at the helm in the brewhouse.
The community response has been overwhelming. Social media is buzzing with locals reminiscing about their favorite Akronym beers and dishes, and eagerly speculating on what’s coming back. Will we see the return of those fan-favorite stouts? Will the pilsners still be as clean and refreshing as before?
Why It Matters
Akronym Brewing’s reopening isn’t just about beer, it’s about community. For downtown Akron, it means another reason to gather, celebrate, and support local business. For craft beer lovers, it’s the return of a brand that always stood for creativity and quality.
Most of all, it’s a second chance to raise a glass to what Akron does best: resilience, reinvention, and a good pour of hometown pride.
🍻 Cheers to Akronym Brewing, welcome back to Akron’s craft beer scene.
