MB1 Capital Partners Acquires Former Freedman’s Bakery to Convert into a Brewery

The creation of the East Coast Beer Co. microbrewery in Belmar took a giant step forward today, as MB1 Capital Partners purchased the former Freedman’s Bakery building and established an aggressive timeline for construction.

“We’ve now closed on the property and will be working closely with Belmar officials in the upcoming weeks as our plans undergo municipal review,” said Joel Brudner, a principal of MB1 Capital Partners, a real estate investment firm that is redeveloping the property. “We are moving along on all facets of the project and are eager to create a landmark in Belmar that will further enhance this great shore town with the brewery as a major attraction.”

MB1 will complete the building renovations and lease the majority of the building to East Coast Beer Co., which produces a signature line of craft brews under the well-known “Beach Haus” label. The principals of MB1 Capital Partners have an ownership interest in East Coast.

The craft brewery will produce and package malt beverages for distribution to wholesalers and retailers. The brewery will also be open for educational tours and tastings, and is expected to be a destination location for visitors and tourists.

John Merklin, a founder of East Coast Beer Co., said he is eager for workers to begin the conversion from a bakery to the brewery, noting the building will be outfitted with state-of-the art equipment to brew the entire portfolio of beer styles.

“Belmar is an iconic Jersey Shore community; this is going to be the perfect fit for an established Jersey Shore beer,” said Merklin, adding the craft brewery will serve as an attraction to visitors throughout the year and will be a boon for neighboring businesses.