Once the project is complete however, the company will cease operations at its secondary plant in Formosa and place the site up for sale.

The move is designed to consolidate operations to a single site and improve manufacturing efficiency and competitiveness.

George Croft, president & chief executive officer, explained: “We are hopeful that a buyer will emerge for Formosa in the months ahead. Given that the Formosa site began producing beer in 1870, it would be wonderful to see a new owner continue that rich history of brewing.

“To our employees in Formosa, we are deeply appreciative of your hard work and dedicated commitment over the years and we will do all we can to minimize any negative impacts on employees in the months ahead.”

He added, “It is clear that a single site with full capabilities is the ideal end state solution to enhance both our competitiveness and our ability to serve our customers.”

Brick said it expects completion of the Kitchener expansion to be complete by July 2017, and to exit from Formosa no later than September 2017.

The company also confirmed that it has been successful in securing $1.75 million in funding from a key co-pack customer along with an extension to the current production contract until December 31, 2022.