CALGARY — Calgary-based Big Rock Brewery Inc. has announced it plans to establish a new brewery in British Columbia.

This brewery will be in addition to the company’s existing facility in Calgary and will specifically serve the B.C. market.

“We are looking forward to brewing beer in British Columbia for British Columbians,” said Robert Sartor, president and chief executive of Big Rock. “We expect to not only brew some of our existing great beers but also to develop new beers that will be specific to, and exclusive in, British Columbia.

“A brewery in the lower mainland will allow us to have fresh, local beer in market, significantly lower transportation costs and ensure full participation in the incredibly vibrant craft beer scene in B.C.”

Total cash outlay required for the new B.C. facility is not known at this time, but it is expected to be in the range of $1.5 to $2.0 million, said Big Rock, adding it has engaged a commercial real estate adviser in B.C. and expects to have the new facility operational within a year.

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