January 07, 2025
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Some DeKalb-area businesses that closed for good in 2024

Here’s a look at what some business owners said about shutting down their shops in 2024

By Megann Horstead
Steve Byers, co-owner of Byers Brewing Company, looks in one of the brewing kettles Friday, Jan. 6, 2023, in the production area at the brewery and taproom in DeKalb. Byers is planning an expansion of its operations to include another location, 216 N. Sixth St., in DeKalb for production only.

Steve Byers, co-owner of Byers Brewing Company, looks in one of the brewing kettles Friday, Jan. 6, 2023, in the production area at the brewery and taproom in DeKalb. Byers is planning an expansion of its operations to include another location, 216 N. Sixth St., in DeKalb for production only. (Mark Busch - mbusch@shawmedia.com/Mark Busch - mbusch@shawmedia.co)

DeKALB – The city of DeKalb lost a number of businesses over the course of the past year, with many owners citing plans to relocate operations, current market conditions and financial constraints.

Among those was Panduit, 1700 Fairview Drive. A member of its team confirmed in May that the company plans to uproot the DeKalb warehouse for Indiana around spring 2025. Company leadership has said they remain committed to supporting employees in the transition.

Here’s a look at some other announcements and why the establishments are no longer operating:

Byers Brewing Co.

Byers Brewing Co., a downtown DeKalb staple known for its craft beer, went out of business, 230 E. Lincoln Highway.

Its owners announced in late December 2023 that they intended to close about Jan. 31, 2024, or when the establishment’s taproom ran out of beer. The Byers family previously cited financial constraints, according to the business’ Facebook page.

“If you know anyone interested in a turnkey brewery, we believe this community is wonderful and could support a brewery in our space,” according to the announcement. “We just couldn’t make it work after 2020 and beyond.”

Tangled Roots Brewing Co.‘s Keg & Kernel

Tangled Roots Brewing Co.‘s Keg & Kernel, 106 E. Lincoln Highway, shut down its DeKalb restaurant, citing current market conditions.

The company’s CEO announced the decision in a lengthy social media post bidding farewell to the community.

“We’ve cherished every pint poured, every meal served and every memory made within these walls. Your enthusiasm and patronage have been the heartbeat of our establishment, and for that, we are forever grateful,” staff wrote. “While this chapter may be coming to a close, the memories and friendships forged here will always remain. From our passionate team to each and every cherished guest, we extend our heartfelt thanks for being a part of our story. As we bid farewell, we raise our glasses to the incredible community that made Keg & Kernel more than just a place, but a home filled with laughter, camaraderie and exceptional craft beer and food.”

The Ottawa-based company that offered its own craft beer closed the eatery April 28, according to a news release.

Gone to the Dogs

The dog day care and training facility Gone to the Dogs, 2270 Barber Greene Road, is gone for good.

The decision to shutter the facility came in a Feb. 15 social media post dedicated to customers.

“We will miss all of you and especially all your fabulous dogs – actually, that will be the worst part,” staff wrote. “Spending the days with them has been a complete blast.”

Effective March 1, staff from Gone to the Dogs stopped servicing customers from the facility.

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