
South Jersey Craft Brewery Announces Sudden Closure at End of Year
A local brewery has announced it is closing its doors for good.
Whims Brewing to Close Doors at the End of 2026
Whims Brewing, at 302 White Horse Pike in Atco at the Town Square Plaza, announced Monday morning that it will be closing at the end of this year.
READ MORE: Brotherton Brewery Reopens in Atco
"So long story short, we will be winding down this operation at the end of the year."
Sharing the news via its social media sites, the owner, Dorien Saunders, said the way he wants to run the brewery isn't currently feasible.
He went on to give some shout-outs to friends and family who have helped and supported the brewery over the five years in business. He mentioned how the staff has become family over the years.
Local Craft Beer Community Reacts
Other local breweries responded, like 3 Three's in Hammonton:
Such sad news Dorien. We know this decision could not have been easy. We are grateful for the friendship and wish you and your family the best of luck in the next chapter.
Plenty of patrons posted, talking about the good times and good beer they had at Whims,
"Glad you're going out on your own terms! Wish I could have gotten in more, but I appreciate the times I have!"
"Really sad news to hear, Dorien. But I’m glad you’re making calls on your own terms. Loved seeing what you built and really enjoyed the cool brews you were putting out. Wishing you the best, dude; you’re just getting started."
"Great spot. Didn't go often, but always enjoyed the beer and vibe when I did. Best wishes to you."
Personal Memories from the Atco Taproom
I was at Whims one time; I actually met up with Geoff Mosher from Inside the Birds for a beer there. It was a while back, but what stands out about this place was the purple walls, cozy seating, and plants that decorated the taproom.
The beer was solid; I had a beer called Order No. 3. Here is a look at the full menu if you want to try and get there before they close.
They are open
- Thursday: 4-9
- Friday: 4-9
- Saturday: 12-9
- Sunday: 12-6
I will have to try to get back there before the end of the year for sure.
If you are in the Atco area and are a fan of breweries, you can check out Brotherton Brewery, which just reopened earlier this year at 2208 Atco Avenue in Atco. The two breweries are less than five minutes apart and accessible from the White Horse Pike.
Hammonton is also nearby and has a pair of breweries, like 3 Three's and Snouts and Stouts, which is about a 15-minute drive.









