Netherlands: Brouwerij De Molen to Close by September 2025

The renowned Brouwerij De Molen in Bodegraven will close its doors by September 2025, as announced by its owner, Royal Swinkels Family Brewers. The decision marks the end of a brewery that has shaped the Dutch craft beer landscape for over two decades. Employees at the facility have been informed about the closure, leaving uncertainty about their future within the company.

Founded in 2004, Brouwerij De Molen built an international reputation with its bold and innovative beers, including the widely acclaimed Hel & Verdoemenis. The brewery became a staple of the craft beer movement in the Netherlands and gained recognition worldwide, exporting to over 40 countries. However, according to Royal Swinkels, a combination of declining beer consumption and an unfavorable lease agreement has led to the decision to shut down operations.

The closure is a significant loss for the Dutch beer scene. Brouwerij De Molen was not only known for its unique beers but also for its annual Borefts Beer Festival, which attracted thousands of visitors and showcased independent breweries from around the world. The festival became a meeting point for beer enthusiasts and a celebration of craft brewing.

Employees of Brouwerij De Molen now face an uncertain future. Royal Swinkels has stated that some of the brewery’s beers may continue to be produced elsewhere, but details remain unclear. For many, the identity and authenticity of Brouwerij De Molen were deeply connected to its location and independent spirit, making the closure a symbolic moment in the changing landscape of the beer industry.

The brewery’s fate was sealed years after its acquisition by Royal Swinkels Family Brewers. Originally launched by Menno Olivier in a historic windmill along the Oude Rijn river, Brouwerij De Molen quickly gained a loyal following. In 2019, after years of collaboration, Royal Swinkels took full ownership, integrating it into its portfolio, which includes brands like Bavaria Holland, La Trappe, Palm, Rodenbach, and Holland Malt.

Despite initial hopes that the acquisition would secure the brewery’s future, changing market conditions and corporate strategy have now led to its closure. The Dutch beer landscape continues to shift, with independent brewers facing growing challenges from industry consolidation and changing consumer preferences.

While one chapter closes, another opens for the brewery’s founder, Menno Olivier. After leaving Brouwerij De Molen, he moved to Spain and launched Menno Olivier Brewing in 2024. Now, he has joined forces with La Pirata Brewing, a respected Spanish brewery known for its experimental approach. This collaboration allows him to continue brewing innovative beers, ensuring that his influence on the craft beer world remains strong.

The closure of Brouwerij De Molen signals the end of an era, raising concerns about the preservation of craft beer heritage in the Netherlands. Whether the brewery’s legacy will live on in a different form remains to be seen, but for its employees, fans, and the wider beer community, its loss will be deeply felt.

Share this article: