Founders Brewing Co. Detroit

"Partnering with local plant shop Leaf Me Plant Boutique, Founders Detroit has created Align Me Gruit as part of its Crafted in Michigan Collaboration Series. This rare style incorporates a bouquet of botanicals and an array of herbs to represent each of the seven Chakras, from root to crown, supported by spicy ginger and hibiscus flowers. 5.8% ABV" - Courtney Burk

"Founders Brewing Company reopened its taproom in February following several months of closure after the brewery faced widespread public backlash. The brewery has pledged to donate its profits to local charities through 2022." - Brenna Houck

"One of the most important, dramatic stories of 2019, also happened to be Eater Detroit’s most-read. Following the release of a deposition conducted in a racial discrimination lawsuit against Founders Brewing Company, local bars and restaurants began responding to customer outrage by removing the brand’s products from menus." - Brenna Houck

"Founders Brewing Company is involved in a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by former employee Tracy Evans. The lawsuit alleges a pervasive culture of racism at the brewery, claiming Evans was passed over for promotions despite greater seniority and was terminated for filing a complaint about a racial slur. The company's response has included closing its Detroit taproom indefinitely and cancelling events out of concern for staff safety. The brewery has undergone sensitivity training and hired a director of diversity and inclusion, although she has since resigned." - Brenna Houck

"Michigan’s largest beer maker Founders Brewing Company is facing renewed scrutiny arising from an ongoing racial discrimination lawsuit. A former employee, Tracy Evans, filed the complaint alleging that the brewery failed to adequately address its toxic, racist work environment and ultimately fired him for raising concerns. Evans claims that Founders inadequately addressed racist behavior among its workers, and was eventually terminated for filing a complaint with human resources. Founders' management denies these allegations, stating Evans was fired due to poor job performance. The lawsuit has ignited anger in the Michigan beer community, with at least one Detroit brewer, Eastern Market Brewing Co., announcing plans to boycott the Detroit Fall Beer Festival where Founders is a participant." - Brenna Houck