Dark Horse Brewing Expansion Establishes Marshall as a Premier Michigan Beer Destination

Nearly 30 years after its founding, the iconic Dark Horse facility has become the primary manufacturing hub for it’s beer, spirits and flavored malt beverage businesses. By consolidating its brewing and marketing operations for a diverse portfolio of beer, spirits, and flavored malt beverages; it has become a powerhouse of production.

In addition to the classic Dark Horse brands that have drawn visitors for decades, the Marshall facility now produces several of the state’s most acclaimed and historic labels, including:

• Altes & Altes Lite: The recently revived heritage brand and former official beer of the Detroit Tigers and Lions.
• Cerveza Delray: A crisp, Mexican-style lager sold under the Brew Detroit brand.
• Great America: Distinctive, jar-packaged flavored malt beverages.
• Limonata: A Sicilian-style pilsner with a signature "hit" of lemon.
• Roak Brewing: Featuring the fan-favorite Devil Dog Oatmeal Stout.

The shift to centralized manufacturing drove a 58 percent increase in production in 2025 alone. This growth resulted in five new full-time positions last year, with additional hiring slated for 2026 and an increase of 20 seasonal employees expected this summer.

"Over the past year, our investments have centered on bringing more brewing to Marshall," said Bruce Kridler, Director of Corporate Affairs. "This is our center of manufacturing. We now understand what Southwest Michigan has known for years—Marshall is the premier place to make and enjoy beer in a community that is leading the way in economic growth."

The expansion extends beyond the brew kettle. Dark Horse continues to serve as a community anchor, hosting a robust summer lineup including Monday Trivia, live music on Thursdays and Saturdays, a Pre-BluesFest event in June, '80s Night on July 18, and the Motorfest After-Party on August 1.

"We are seeing positive business growth across the board, from new manufacturing to housing developments," said James Durian, CEO of the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance (MAEDA). "It is an exciting time for our city."

Marshall Mayor Scott Wolfersberger echoed the sentiment: “We are thrilled to see new jobs and investment in one of Marshall’s most iconic businesses. This growth is a fantastic indicator of Marshall’s bright economic future.”

Community members interested in the expansion can attend the Choose Marshall “What’s Brewing” event hosted at Dark Horse on June 11.

For additional information, contact John Rodopolous at (269) 781-9940.