DETROIT, Mich. (June 4, 2026) — In a full-circle moment for Detroit business and craft beer, Mark Rieth — the entrepreneur who owned and operated Atwater Brewery from 2005 to 2020 — has entered into a definitive agreement to reacquire the historic Detroit craft brewery. The deal returns Atwater to local ownership after it was sold to Molson Coors’ Tenth and Blake division in 2020 and later acquired by Tilray Brands in 2023.
Rieth, a longtime champion of Detroit-made products, is excited to bring the brewery back under independent local control. “My heart has always been with Atwater, and I’m thrilled to have the brewery back in my hands,” said Rieth. “I appreciate the stewardship of both Tenth and Blake and Tilray over the past five years. What I hope to bring is the deeper connection to the community that only a local owner/operator can truly provide.”
Strengthening Community Roots and Detroit Legacy
Atwater Brewery has been a cornerstone of Michigan’s craft beer scene for more than three decades. Founded in Detroit’s historic Rivertown district, the brewery is known for award-winning beers including flagship favorites Dirty Blonde Ale and Vanilla Java Porter, along with a diverse lineup of German-inspired lagers and distinctive craft ales distributed across Michigan and multiple states nationwide.
“Atwater has always been more than just a brewery. It’s a hometown brand that has shown up for Detroit through community events, civic organizations, and neighborhood partnerships,” Rieth added. “I’m excited to build on that legacy, strengthen those connections, and continue producing world-class beer.”
Expanding a Detroit Portfolio
Since selling Atwater in 2020, Rieth founded FÜL Beverages, a company focused on locally produced non-alcoholic and functional beverages. In 2025, he acquired the nearly century-old Velvet Peanut Butter brand — another iconic Detroit original. As part of the Atwater reacquisition, Velvet Peanut Butter’s offices and distribution will move into the Rivertown complex, and Rieth plans to open “Velvet House,” a brand immersion experience and retail center.
Rieth also owns Lansing Brewing Company and intends to create stronger collaboration between his breweries. The transaction, which includes the Atwater brands, equipment, and intellectual property (while Rieth had retained the historic real estate), is expected to close in summer 2026.
This homecoming reinforces the motto “Born in Detroit. Raised Everywhere.” and signals a bright future for one of Michigan’s pioneering craft breweries under dedicated local leadership.
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