By Alex Johnson
Boston, MA – September 16, 2025. A big legal fight is brewing in Massachusetts. Law firm Cozen O’Connor has filed a lawsuit. They claim a Boston brewery broke a contract. The suit seeks $1.2 million in damages. The target is Lord Hobo Brewing Co. This popular craft beer maker now faces tough claims.
The case started in federal court. It is in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. Cozen O’Connor represents the plaintiff. That is Ball Corporation. Ball is a major supplier of metal packaging. They make aluminum cans and ends for drinks. The contract at issue began in March 2022. It was set for four years.
According to the complaint, Lord Hobo agreed to buy a minimum amount of cans each year. This was to ensure steady supply for their beer production. But the brewery fell short. They did not meet the required purchase quantities. Cozen O’Connor says this breach caused big losses for Ball. The firm argues that Lord Hobo violated the supply agreement. They seek damages for lost sales and other costs.
Lord Hobo Brewing Co. is known for its IPAs and stouts. The company started in 2011. It has grown fast in the craft beer scene. They have a taproom in Boston’s Seaport District. Sales have boomed since the pandemic. But now, this lawsuit could hurt their image and wallet.
Experts say contract disputes like this are common in the beverage industry. Supply chains got messy after COVID-19. Breweries faced rising costs for materials. Aluminum prices spiked in 2022. Some companies cut back on orders to save money. “It’s a classic case of post-pandemic fallout,” said industry analyst Tom Davis. He works for Brewbound. “Smaller brewers often struggle with long-term commitments when markets shift.”
Cozen O’Connor has a strong presence in Boston. The firm opened its office there in 2020. They focus on litigation and business law. This suit shows their expertise in commercial disputes. Partner Sarah Jenkins leads the team on this case. She has handled similar supply chain fights before. “We are committed to protecting our client’s rights,” Jenkins said in a statement. “This agreement was clear. The breach is clear.”
Lord Hobo has not commented yet. Their lawyers are reviewing the filing. A response is due soon. The brewery has faced other legal issues in the past. In 2023, they settled a trademark spat with another craft maker. But this is their first big supplier dispute.
The lawsuit details the contract terms. It required Lord Hobo to buy at least 5 million can units per year. That includes the cans and the ends that seal them. Ball supplied the goods reliably. Yet, purchases dropped by over 40% in year two. Cozen O’Connor claims this was willful. They say the brewery shopped around for cheaper options.
Ball Corporation is a giant in the field. They supply drinks worldwide. From sodas to beers, their cans are everywhere. Losing this deal hurts their revenue. The $1.2 million claim covers direct losses. It also includes interest and legal fees.
This case could set a precedent. Courts in Massachusetts favor strict contract enforcement. Judges often side with suppliers in breach claims. If Ball wins, other breweries might face similar suits. “It’s a warning for the industry,” Davis added. “Lock in those deals carefully.”
The hearing is set for October 15. Both sides will argue motions then. Discovery will follow. That means sharing documents and emails. It could drag on for months.
For now, Lord Hobo keeps pouring pints. Their fans love the bold flavors. But behind the bar, trouble brews. This lawsuit tests their business smarts. Will they settle or fight? Only time will tell.
Craft beer sales are up 3% this year. But margins are tight. Rising hops and labor costs pinch profits. A loss here could force price hikes or cutbacks.
Cozen O’Connor’s move highlights risks in growth. Breweries expand fast. But contracts bind them tight. Breaking one can cost dear.
In summary, this $1.2 million claim shakes the Boston beer world. Ball wants its money. Lord Hobo wants to move on. The court will decide. Stay tuned for updates.