Finding Saskatchewan-made products just became a bit easier at Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) liquor stores.
A new ‘DrinkSask’ campaign will see SLGA promote Saskatchewan-made products through dedicated shelving displays and other promotional materials in its stores.
“Saskatchewan’s alcohol producers have quickly earned a reputation for producing quality product,” Minister responsible for SLGA Don McMorris said. “Customer interest in Saskatchewan-made products is growing and so are the number of businesses involved in the industry.”
There are currently nine Saskatchewan manufacturers that list products in SLGA liquor stores. In addition, many other businesses have permits to manufacture and sell Saskatchewan spirits, wine and/or beer products through on-table sales, off-sale outlets and at farmer’s markets. More businesses are currently in the process of obtaining manufacturing permits.
“It was a dream of ours to take our hobby of brewing beer and turn it into an actual business,” Kari Stenson said who, along with her husband Clayton own Black Bridge Brewery in Swift Current. “It’s been a lot of hard work but the response we’ve received from customers has been outstanding. It’s a great feeling to receive so much support and encouragement not only from people in Swift Current but around the province.”
Black Bridge Brewery opened for business in the fall of 2014 and currently lists three products – IPA!, Milk Stout and Centennial Rye Ale – in SLGA liquor stores. The business also supplies beer to a number of commercial permittees in the province and operates a taproom at their new facility in Swift Current.
SLGA recently announced it would be seeking a third party to conduct a comprehensive review of the province’s craft alcohol industry. The review will look at issues like production thresholds, mark-up rates, shipping, retail distribution and the industry’s overall economic impact. An organization will be chosen soon to conduct the review with a final report issued to government later this fall.
