Brewery Pays $600,000 in Back Wages Following Audit
Pennsylvania brewery operators must ensure payroll compliance to avoid state interventions and costly wage theft settlements.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Jobs — General
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Bald Birds Brewing Company has paid nearly $600,000 in back wages and damages to over 100 employees following a state intervention. The payments address allegations of wage theft occurring at the company’s taprooms in Jersey Shore and Montgomery County.
Why it matters
The Pennsylvania Labor Department intervention highlights the severe operational and financial risks brewery operators face when payroll practices fail to meet state wage laws. Beyond direct liabilities, the company is also currently facing legal action regarding unpaid rent.
Bald Birds Brewing Company paid nearly $600,000 in wages and damages to more than 100 staff members. These disbursements followed a state-led investigation into labor practices at the operator's Pennsylvania locations.
The players
Bald Birds Brewing Company
A Pennsylvania-based brewery operator with taprooms in Jersey Shore and Montgomery County.
Pennsylvania Labor Department
The state agency responsible for overseeing and enforcing workplace wage and hour laws.
Joe and Abby Feerrar
The founders of Bald Birds Brewing Company.
The details
The Pennsylvania Labor Department launched an investigation into the brewery after dozens of employees filed accusations of wage theft. Following the inquiry, the company provided restitution to its staff at taprooms located in Jersey Shore and Montgomery County. The case serves as a sharp reminder for operators to maintain rigorous payroll compliance as the company simultaneously navigates separate legal challenges involving outstanding rent payments.
Timeline
The Pennsylvania Labor Department intervened in labor disputes over the past year.
Market Landscape
This enforcement action aligns with the broader regulatory framework defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act. It underscores the recurring industry challenge of maintaining strict payroll discipline to avoid state-level wage theft investigations.
Operators should review their payroll systems and pay schedules to ensure full compliance with state wage laws to prevent similar labor department investigations. Maintaining clear documentation of hours worked and compensation paid is essential for avoiding costly restitution and legal fees.
The takeaway
Wage theft allegations represent a significant financial and reputational threat that can destabilize brewery operations. Owners should audit payroll records annually and ensure all staff payments match state-mandated overtime and minimum wage requirements.
Further reading
For more on managing workforce compliance, visit Jobs — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Patch.
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