HÜTT Brewery to close after 270 years as family business ends with no successor

The HÜTT Brewery, a family-owned business with a history spanning 270 years and nine generations, has announced its closure. The decision was made by Frank Bettenhäuser, the current managing director and owner, who cited his age of 68 as a key factor. Bettenhäuser explained that after more than four decades at the helm, he could not secure a successor to continue the brewery’s legacy in the region.

The brewery, known for its popular brands Hütt and Hessisch Löwen, has been a staple in its community for centuries. Bettenhäuser said he had long sought a solution to ensure the company’s future beyond his retirement but was unable to find one. As a result, he has initiated an orderly liquidation of the business.

The announcement was made directly to employees, customers, and partners. Bettenhäuser expressed gratitude to his staff and everyone who supported the brewery over the years. He emphasized that the closure was a difficult but necessary step out of respect for his employees and in recognition of the company’s long-standing history.

The HÜTT Brewery’s closure marks the end of an era for both the family and the local community. The company had built a reputation for quality beers enjoyed by people of all ages. The process of winding down operations will begin immediately, with efforts focused on ensuring an orderly transition for all involved.

Bettenhäuser concluded his statement by thanking everyone who had been part of the brewery’s journey and asked that people remember HÜTT fondly. The closure reflects broader challenges faced by many traditional breweries in Germany, where succession planning and market pressures have led to similar outcomes in recent years.