Brick Brewing to outsource distribution to The Beer Store as part of cost-cutting

Fri Sep 11, 6:55 PM
The Canadian Press

By The Canadian Press

WATERLOO, Ont. - Brick Brewing Co. (TSX: BRB.TO) said Friday it's outsourcing its distribution to The Beer Store as part of a $2-million cost-cutting plan for fiscal 2010.

The brewer also said it's expanding its current transportation partnership with the Ryder trucking services company.

"By enhancing our distribution and streamlining our operating model, Brick Brewing is well-positioned to grow in an increasingly competitive Canadian beer industry," stated Brick president and CEO George Croft.

"These cost-cutting measures are part of our larger profitability strategy, which optimizes Brick Brewing's product mix and partners our company with major retailers to become the preferred supplier wherever possible."

The beer maker did not say how many jobs are affected by the streamlining.

Brick Brewing's brands include its Waterloo craft beers as well as Laker, Red Baron, Red Cap and Formosa Springs Draft.

Shares in the company gained six cents or 8.6 per cent to 76 cents in Friday trading on the TSX.