Sleeman expands Vernon Based Okanagan Spring Brewery
SLEEMAN SET TO EXPAND VERNON BREWERY
Okanagan Spring Success Brings New Equipment, New Upgrades, and New Jobs
Vernon, BC – July 8, 2014 – In tribute to the ongoing success of Okanagan Spring, Sleeman Breweries is pleased to announce a $4.4M investment to expand its already thriving Vernon Brewery, bringing good news to the region and craft beer enthusiasts across the province and the country.
The expansion will take place gradually over the course of 2014/2015 including new tanks, increased brewhouse capacity, and refrigeration upgrades – increasing overall annual capacity by approximately 20 per cent. The investment is also expected to create new jobs in areas such as brewing, packaging, maintenance and warehousing.
Sleeman Vice President of Operations, Dave Klaassen, says he’s delighted to see such a local success story. “Thirty years later, Okanagan Spring is still brewed in Vernon where it was first founded. From humble beginnings it’s become one of B.C.’s most popular craft beers – and is now extending nationally as well, with increased distribution in Ontario and Quebec.”
“With the Brewery now at capacity, we’re making a significant investment for the future. We’re thankful to the people who have contributed to its success – this investment is a result of their expertise, and the quality product they brew here every day,” he finished.
Mr Eric Foster, MLA Vernon-Monashee, joined the Sleeman team and special guests at the Brewery today to toast to their success, and wish the expansion well. “It’s a pleasure to see Okanagan Spring do so well locally, provincially and now nationally – and still receive such strong investment and support in its homeland. The Brewery is already a local icon here in Vernon, and the expansion will be a great boost to the community.”
Sleeman Breweries Ltd has a portfolio of successful regional breweries, including Vernon. The Company’s leadership and investment has allowed remarkable craft beer such as Okanagan Spring to be the best it can be.
The Okanagan Spring Brewery product portfolio includes favourites such as Okanagan Spring Pale Ale, Okanagan Spring 1516 Bavarian Lager, Okanagan Spring Porter, Okanagan Spring Brewmaster’s Black Lager, Okanagan Spring Apricot Summer Weizen – and a recent addition, Okanagan Spring Cloudy Amber Ale.
