©Okanagan Cider Co
Labatt Breweries of Canada – part of AB InBev – has announced a CAD 69.2 million ($55.1 million approx.) investment in its brewery in Edmonton, Alberta.
Built in 1963, the Edmonton brewery employs more than 190 people. Labatt is seeking to expand the facility’s production capacity and capabilities with its latest investment, which will support the introduction of new technology, equipment and product lines, as well as upgrades to the brewhouse and control room.
The capital injection will also fund 30,000 square feet of new warehouse space and a 30,000-square-foot ready-to-drink (RTD) building, and create 25 local jobs in Edmonton.
The investment aims to address the growing demand for ready-to-drink beverages and means that RTD brands like Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Palm Bay and Okanagan Cider will be produced locally in Edmonton.
The investment is part of an ongoing CAD 119 million ($94.6 million) capital programme, which has been running since 2019 and will also support operations beyond the brewery.
Kyle Norrington, president of Labatt Breweries of Canada, said: “As the province continues its post-pandemic recovery, this investment is one more step in the right direction, with new jobs, economic growth and the type of innovation that continues to make Alberta a great place to live, work and do business.”
Alberta Premier, Jason Kenney, added: “This is a vote of confidence in Alberta’s recovery, creating dozens of new jobs right here in Edmonton, and even more across the province through economic impacts. This is more proof that Alberta’s recovery plan is powering our economy and getting Albertans back to work.”
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