Labatt's Edmonton brewery expansion to boost production and create jobs

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Labatt Breweries of Canada has put the finishing touches on a major facility expansion in Edmonton that has added 30,000 square feet of warehouse space and a brand new ready-to-drink production facility.

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Of the company’s recent $119-million capital investment in Alberta, $69.2 million has been put toward upgrading the Edmonton brewery that can now produce Labatt products that haven’t been made locally before.

“It’s really a facility that will let us make brands like Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Palm Bay, Okanagan Cider, American Vintage to name a few, and in the near future brands like NUTRL Vodka Soda as well, right here with our amazing team,” said Peter Delamont, general manager of Labatt Edmonton Brewery.

“It really positions the brewery for the future, allowing us to produce these brands that are in high demand and continuing to grow across the west and across North America.”

Mike’s Hard Lemonade and other ready-to-drink beverages are also made in B.C., Ontario and Quebec.

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The extra warehouse space is needed because the facility will be producing more products, which also means more jobs for the city.

“We’re really excited about that, creating new jobs and setting our brewery up for future growth to address the changing needs and tastes of all our consumers,” said Delamont.

“It’s a testament to our skilled employees here at the brewery and the quality, care and craftsmanship we’ve always put in, and it’s led to future growth here on site and we’re just really proud of that.”

Delamont said the brewery team in Alberta currently helps serve 3,000 retail outlets, bars and restaurants across the province. Labatt has been brewing beer in Edmonton for almost 60 years and the brewery’s president said the new expansion will ensure further success.

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“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,” said Kyle Norrington in a news release.

Delamont said the investment allows the Edmonton brewery to bring in new technology and equipment, while also upgrading brewing and training practices.

A news conference to mark the expansion is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday, with both Mayor Don Iveson and Premier Jason Kenney speaking.

“It’s a major investment in Alberta and it’s really going to help accelerate the province’s economic recovery and create jobs in Edmonton. … Having the premier here really demonstrates our commitment to Alberta while also recognizing investments and innovation will be key for economic recovery for the whole province,” said Delamont.