Two Ont. brewers announce merger

Equals Brewing Company acquires Side Launch Brewing Company as part of growing consolidation in craft beverage marketplace. (CNW Group/Equals Brewing Company)

LONDON — Equals Brewing and Side Launch have come together with a commitment to build on their respective positions in Canada’s craft landscape. That means Ontarians can expect to see even more of the Side Launch beers, Bangarang seltzers and Shake Lagers that those companies produce.

“Like so many beer-lovers in Ontario, we’ve admired Side Launch from afar for close to a decade. We love the entire beer portfolio, and love the location in Collingwood, and love the experience and energy of the team,” said Justin McKellar, President, Equals Brewing.

“So, when we saw the opportunity to bring the companies together, it was a no-brainer. The cost of sales and distribution becomes a big challenge for smaller craft breweries, so building a winning portfolio alongside Bangarang has been a priority for us, and we believe we have found the perfect fit with Side Launch Brewing.”

The Side Launch brewery and taproom in Collingwood will remain the flagship location for the brand, and they are looking to deepen the connection with the local community. The company already has plans to bring back the Side Launch Passionate Sour.

McKellar says, “Through building success with Bangarang, we understand what it means to have a brand and product that our customers love, and we appreciate every customer that helped us build Bangarang. Now, we feel the same about the Side Launch customer, and the Collingwood community, and we’ll put in the effort to earn their continued support.”