TORONTO, Jan. 7, 2015 /CNW/ - "The announcement today by The Beer Store regarding opening ownership to Ontario's small brewers came as a complete surprise to our members," said Cam Heaps, Chairman of Ontario Craft Brewers.
"It certainly does not address our major issue of improving access for consumers. Before we can comment, we need more information; we have a lot of questions."
Heaps pointed out that there is a Government process in place regarding beer distribution in Ontario and the OCB wants to continue to work within that process.
"Our goal continues to be fundamental change to Ontario's beer distribution channels that will result in a doubling or tripling of the jobs currently created by the craft brewers as well as the ability to reach our full share of market potential," said Heaps.
"We were not consulted on any of this and as such, we just do not have enough information to comment right now. It is as simple as that."
Ontario Craft Brewers: Discover the Difference. http://www.ontariocraftbrewers.com
Ontario Craft Brewers is an association of about 50 small brewers dedicated to making great tasting, high quality beer in Ontario. Ontario Craft Brewers brew their beers locally using fresh, all natural ingredients in communities throughout Ontario - from the Ottawa Valley to Windsor and Niagara to Muskoka and as far north as Kenora. Handcrafting over 450 premium beers, Ontario Craft Brewers employ well over 1,000 people in Ontario, accounting for over 30 per cent of the direct brewing industry jobs in the province. As of 2013, Ontario's Craft Brewers' share for premium priced brands was almost 4% of the beer volume sold. Craft beer continues to be the fastest growing segment within the LCBO's beer category. The OCB's long term vision is to make Ontario a North American Centre of Excellence for Craft Brewing. Funding provided by the government of Ontario. Please discover responsibly.
SOURCE Ontario Craft Brewers
Image with caption: "Ontario Craft Brewers (CNW Group/Ontario Craft Brewers)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150107_C4741_PHOTO_EN_10007.jpg
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