John Bisges AB ’93 and Aaron Bisges BBA ’13, JD ’17
John Bisges wasn’t someone who wanted to brew beer at home. But he thought craft brewing was a good investment. The joy of the job is just a bonus.
“I started my career in retail, but that’s more of a passion. I can grow this business without having to worry about feeding my family with it, ”says Bisges.
Not only is he the co-founder of StillFire, but he’s also the CEO of Dynacraft, a Savannah-based company that is one of the world’s largest dealers of bicycles, scooters, and slides – even one that shares its name with UGA’s famous mascot, Uga., resembles
Built in an old fire station (hence the name StillFire), the brewery has an open-air atmosphere with indoor and outdoor areas inspired by Napa Valley wineries. The dog-friendly atmosphere and the fenced-in children’s playground add more local flair and speak directly to StillFire’s suburban location and aim to be a family destination.
“The old social model of going to pubs and hanging out in this closed, dark place was not very inviting, especially for families and children,” says Aaron Bisges, general manager of StillFire and John’s nephew. “Breweries today offer more of a social and community aspect than just a place to drink.”
StillFire is anchoring a renaissance in downtown Suwannee. On the other side of the street, a square that has been vacant for more than a decade is being converted into a café / restaurant. In addition, a number of more than a dozen locally owned shops unfold in the shadow of the town hall.
Aaron Bisges joined StillFire during his third year of law school at UGA. John invited him to work on start-up concepts and Aaron’s legal background helped create the business plan.
“When I first saw the site and then walked back and forth with the city, building it up, and putting it on paper, that was the most exciting part,” says Aaron. “You create something of your own.
He’s not finished creating either. In June, StillFire and Derek Norton BBA ’02, the Mayor of Smyrna, announced plans for a new brewery in the heart of the northwest suburb of Atlanta. The targeted opening date is autumn 2022.
