"Suzhou is an exciting city to live in, and Wujiang is my favorite part," said Brad Kuhl, who co-founded Twin Tails Brewing Company with fellow American Andrew Crooks.

Their brewery was highlighted during a Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security media tour last week as an example of successful foreign entrepreneurship in China.

Brad, a Miami native, met his wife Viola, a Suzhou native, while teaching at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. He and his friend Andrew Crooks, who shared a passion for craft beer, launched Twin Tails Brewing Company in the summer of 2019.

Their first location in Wujiang district drew local customers with craft beer brewed on site and Western cuisine, including brick-oven pizza and burgers. The success led to a second location in Suzhou Industrial Park.

The interior of Twin Tails Brewing Company in Wujiang, Suzhou, Dec. 11, 2024. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

The company name "Twin Tails" reflects both founders' shared Chinese zodiac sign – the Dog – representing their collaborative spirit.

"In many aspects of business, such as interior design, food, beer and product development, we integrate design, craftsmanship, and creative thinking, allowing us to fully utilize the skills we've accumulated over the years in the field of art," Crooks said.

Since opening, Twin Tails has cultivated a loyal following among Chinese and international customers in the greater Suzhou area, with its unique cuisine and craft beer. 

"We have established a reputation in Suzhou city and also promote our beer nationally," Viola noted.

Co-founders Brad Kuhl, right, and Andrew Crooks at their Twin Tail Beer Company in Wujiang, Suzhou, Dec. 11, 2024. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

The company's growth in Suzhou is closely tied to local government support. "From the start of our business, the local government has been actively involved, providing us with professional feedback and guidance to help us structure and organize the company more smoothly than we expected," Brad said.

"I think the government is supportive in helping us get our visas. They also provided useful guidance on kitchen safety, laying a solid foundation for our business operations," Andrew added.

Brad Kuhl and his wife Viola at Twin Tail Beer Company in Wujiang, Suzhou, Dec. 11, 2024. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

Brad and Viola have two daughters who are being educated in Suzhou. Brad often takes the children for walks in Suzhou's various parks, saying the waterfront scenery reminds him of his hometown, Miami.

As a cross-cultural family, Brad and Viola sometimes encounter differences in business operations due to cultural differences. 

Viola added: "These are just normal discussions at work, and we reconcile quickly. Growing up in the multicultural environment of Miami, Brad always hoped our children would become bilingual and appreciate the charm of different cultures. My family has also embraced Brad with an inclusive attitude, creating a warm family atmosphere."

Twin Tails' success in Suzhou demonstrates the city's openness to international business ventures and cross-cultural partnerships.