Oregon’s First Black-Owned Brewery Closes One Chapter, But Its Legacy of Black Excellence Lives On

Assembly Brewing Says Goodbye to Southeast Portland

Oregon’s first Black-owned brewery is closing its doors after six memorable years in Southeast Portland. Assembly Brewing, opened by George Johnson, became a community staple known for its craft beer and Detroit-style pizza.

Despite the love from loyal customers, financial challenges made it impossible to keep the original Foster Road location open. “For the last few years, if we had the real support of this neighborhood, we wouldn’t be in this position,” Johnson shared.

A Difficult Decision for a Dreamer

George Johnson, who built Assembly Brewing from the ground up, admitted the decision wasn’t easy. He spent years chasing this dream and hoped to grow the business further.

“I had to make the decision, or I was going to go homeless,” Johnson said, describing the tough call to close his primary brewing location. He compared it to “going into a battle with just your underwear,” showing how tough it was to stay afloat.

The Power of Community Support for Black-Owned Businesses

Even in its final days, Southeast Portlanders lined up for one last slice and pint. Longtime customer Tobin Cox reflected on the loss, saying, “Having that gone is really detrimental to Portland as a whole.”

Cox stressed how important it is to support local Black-owned businesses. “When I am able to go out, when I am able to spend money, really making that count because we lose businesses like this if we don’t step up and show up,” he said.

Assembly Brewing’s Legacy Will Not Be Forgotten

Though the Foster location is closing, Assembly’s name will live on. The Alberta Street location will remain open, though it won’t have brewing space. Johnson’s mark on Portland’s brewing scene is lasting and meaningful.

“I’ve been working on this since I was a teenager. I’m in my 50s, and now I have to figure out what I’m going to do with the rest of my life,” Johnson reflected. His story reminds us all of the strength and passion behind Black-owned businesses.

A Call to Action for Supporting Black Entrepreneurs

This isn’t just the end of a brewery — it’s a call for communities to rally around Black-owned spaces. According to the Brewers Association, over 35 breweries and taprooms closed in Oregon in 2024 alone.

Assembly Brewing’s story highlights the importance of showing up, buying local, and preserving Black excellence in every industry. Its chapter may be closing, but its impact will continue to inspire.