Minnesota's First Co-op Brewery Has Austin Roots

Niko Tonks used to brew at Live Oak Brewing Company, but recently moved back to Minneapolis. In his bags was the idea for a co-op brewery, Fair State Brewing Company. Tonks, Evan Sallee, Matthew Hauck are partners in the brewery and are all old college friends. In addition to $200,000 from investors, 125 co-op members $200 each. They recently signed a lease for a building which will be shared with a German-style bakery.

Co-op members will vote for the board of directors and get discounts as well as dividends from profits of the brewery.

The brewery is expected to open May 1.