Wellington Brew Bar Shuts Down Amid Cost-of-Living Crisis

In a surprising announcement on March 6, 2024, Wellington’s popular brew bar, Fortune Favours, revealed that it will close its doors for good on March 10, 2024. The decision comes after eight years of operation and is attributed to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which has significantly impacted its financial stability.

The bar’s management shared the news via social media, stating, “The cost of living crisis has proven too difficult to navigate.” They reported a staggering 20 percent decrease in revenues compared to the previous year, which had already seen a 25 percent decline. The management emphasized that this downward trend is “not sustainable” for the business.

As part of its farewell, Fortune Favours will offer deals on merchandise and beer until supplies run out. This decision comes just days after the bar received accolades for its beer at the Wellington Beervana festival. The team also highlighted their recent success in creating the Rare Beer Challenge, which raised $30,000 for Rare Disorders NZ.

The announcement has elicited a wave of sadness across social media platforms. Many patrons expressed their dismay, with one individual noting that the Rare Beer event was the reason they chose to stay in Wellington. Another user expressed anticipation for the bar’s final weekend events, describing it as an opportunity for a “last hurrah.”

Fortune Favours has been a significant player in Wellington’s vibrant craft beer scene, known not only for its unique brews but also for its community engagement and events. The closure marks a notable shift in the local hospitality landscape, reflecting broader economic challenges faced by small businesses amid rising living costs.

As Wellington residents prepare for the bar’s final days, the closure serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles within the hospitality sector, exacerbated by economic pressures affecting consumers and businesses alike.