United States: North American Breweries to merge tighter its brewing divisions

North American Breweries, which include AB InBev’s former Labatt USA and the Genesee Brewing Company, is investing $10 million into Rochester’s Genesee Beer brand, hoping to bring the brewery back to “its glory days”, Triangle Business Journal reported on June, 5.

North American Breweries were created by KPS Capital Partners LP earlier this year. The company plans to merge the sales and marketing teams from Labatt USA and Genesee, once a recognized beer in Western New York. The company said it has begun $6 million in upgrades and will invest another $4 million in 2010.

“Positive changes are brewing,” said Rich Lozyniak, the new CEO of North American Breweries. “We’re reviewing every aspect of our business to strengthen the brewery’s position.”

NAB said it will upgrade brewery equipment, make necessary repairs and add boiler controls and steam economizers that reduce energy consumption. The changes are expected to bring annual operating savings of more than $1 million.

In addition to Genesee, the brewery produces Seagram’s Escapes, as well as Dundee Ales and Lagers family of craft brands, which includes the Original Honey Brown Lager. The Rochester company distributes several imports, including Imperial from Costa Rica, Steinlager from New Zealand, Toohey’s New from Australia and Thwaites from the U.K.

05 June, 2009