Florian East
An inclusive brewery experience is helping to revitalize downtown Hamtramck with support from the MEDC’s Build MI Community grant initiative
Photos courtesy of Gerard + Belevender
In downtown Hamtramck, Michigan, Florian East has redefined the traditional brewery experience, creating a community-centered gathering space that embodies inclusivity and revitalization. Founded by a group of University of Michigan Law School and University of Detroit Mercy College of Law graduates with deep ties to the state, Florian East stands apart by offering a welcoming environment with unique low- and non-alcoholic beverage options, making it a place for everyone in the diverse Hamtramck community.
A Unique Vision for Hamtramck
The founders’ connection to Michigan runs deep, with three of the four partners – John Abbo, Chris Burtley and Shang Kong – hailing from Michigan, while Milo Madole attended Kalamazoo College and settled in Hamtramck after law school. They all share a passion for Hamtramck’s cultural vibrancy. “There aren’t many places where you can try ten different cuisines or hear twenty different languages in a two-square-mile radius,” they share. Known for its walkability, creative scene and rich cultural history, Hamtramck felt like the perfect place to build something meaningful. Partnering with brewer Will Mundel, a local resident, the team embarked on a mission to bring this vision to life in a way that honors the city’s character.
Creating an Inclusive Brewery Experience
Florian East reimagines the brewery model by embracing inclusivity as a core part of its mission. Recognizing the area’s unique demographic, where a large portion of residents do not drink alcohol, Florian East offers an array of low- and non-alcoholic options, such as a new “coffee and soccer” program on weekend mornings. “Inclusivity is critical and non-negotiable for us. Even if some hours aren’t profitable, we see it as our mission and responsibility to the community,” the founders explain. This forward-thinking approach makes Florian East a welcoming space for all, whether patrons come to enjoy craft beer or to experience the brewery’s alternative offerings.
MEDC’s Support: Turning Vision into Reality
Florian East’s transformation of a long-vacant building was made possible with essential support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Build MI Community Grant initiative. This grant filled a crucial financial gap that allowed the team to restore the space while retaining its historical integrity. “The redevelopment of older buildings in high-vacancy urban areas is challenging,” the founders say. “Without MEDC’s support, this building, which had been vacant for at least 15 years, would likely still be empty.”
Through guidance from a development consultant and additional feedback from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Florian East was able to secure funding and refine its business model. “The willingness of MEDC to buy into and invest in our vision is what made Florian East a reality,” they add.
A Lasting Impact on Hamtramck’s Growth
The community’s response to Florian East has been overwhelmingly positive, with coverage in local publications like the Hamtramck Review, Detroit News, Crain’s and Eater Detroit underscoring its impact. Beyond being a new business, Florian East embodies a long-term investment in Hamtramck’s future. As the founders look forward to new projects in the area, they see Florian East as just the beginning of a broader commitment to supporting Hamtramck’s growth and fostering inclusive spaces throughout Michigan.
