Last Friday, SLM reported that Ferguson Brewing Company (418 S. Florissant, Ferguson) plans to close on December 20, after more than 15 years in business. Now comes the good news: The building is slated to reopen early next year as Good News Brewing Ferguson, a locally owned franchise of the O’Fallon-based brewery known for its craft beer and wood-fired pizzas.
“Ferguson Brewing has been a cornerstone for connection and conversation in this city,” Ferguson Brewing owner Robb Wiesen said in statement released Monday on social media. “We’re proud of what we’ve built and grateful for the community that supported us. It’s exciting to know that this space will continue to serve Ferguson in a meaningful way.”
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Good News Brewing Ferguson will be operated by Rodney and Julie Fickas, longtime Ferguson residents and founders of Soulcraft, a local nonprofit workshop where neighbors come together to learn woodworking, design, and hands-on craft. Through Soulcraft, the couple has mentored hundreds of residents in building skills and confidence—a community-first approach they plan to bring to the new brewpub.
“Good News Brewing shares our belief that gathering matters,” says Rodney Fickas. “Ferguson Brewing laid a foundation as a welcoming local spot. We want to build on that—creating a place where the community feels at home, where stories and good news are shared.”
The Background
When Ferguson Brewing opened in 2010, it gave North County a true neighborhood brewpub where community and craft came together. For 15 years, it anchored downtown Ferguson and became part of the city’s daily rhythm.
That same spirit will carry forward with Good News Brewing Ferguson, which plans to open in early 2026, after light renovations to the existing space.
For Good News Brewing, the move feels like a homecoming of sorts. Co-founder Dan Tripp remembers visiting Ferguson Brewing more than a decade ago, long before launching his own company. “I remember the first time I visited Ferguson Brewing about 15 years ago, back when I was still a home brewer,” Tripp recalls. “The place was packed, and I turned to my wife and said, ‘If you build it, they will come.’ That moment has always stuck with me.”
Since opening its original taproom in O’Fallon in 2017, Good News has grown into a regional brand, with locations in Defiance, Augusta, St. Charles, Wildwood, and Alton. Its formula—approachable craft beer, wood-fired pizza, and family-friendly hospitality—has made it one of the most recognizable names in St. Louis beer.
The Ferguson location will follow that model while adding a few personal touches. The menu will feature Good News staples alongside new lunch options and dishes inspired by Ferguson Brewing favorites. Community events and private gatherings are already being planned, underscoring the company’s mission to “share good news through good beer.”
“We’re thrilled for Rodney and Julie to engage with the community and keep the history of craft beer alive here,” Tripp says. “Ferguson Brewing built something special—we’re honored to carry it forward.”
Learn more about the craft beer scene on the Arch Eats podcast featuring guest Jordan Palmer.
