Canada’s Waterloo Brewing is planning to expand its facility in Kitchener with an investment of C$9.6m ($7.2m).

The investment is part of the company’s strategy to enhance its operations and support continued growth. It will be used to expand warehouse and production facilities at the site by 65,600ft2, including the addition of a large retail store and a small-batch brewhouse.

Several pieces of equipment will also be purchased to improve the brewery’s capabilities, capacity and operational efficiency.

Waterloo Brewing owns several beer brands such as Waterloo, Laker and Landshark. Its COO Russell Tabata said: “This investment in our operations will deliver significant returns for the business while at the same time improving both the capabilities and capacities of our production facility.

“Waterloo Brewing launched the craft beer movement in Ontario.”

“Additionally, the installation of the small batch brewhouse will allow us to leverage the years of brewing experience and expertise to create a unique consumer experience.”

The company expects the project to deliver more than C$1.1m ($827,036) annually in revenue growth and operational cost savings.

The Mayor of Kitchener Berry Vrbanovic said: “Since 1984, Waterloo Brewing has been a good friend to the Waterloo region and the people who live here.

“Waterloo Brewing launched the craft beer movement in Ontario and has been an integral part of our region’s rich history with beer and brewing.”

Waterloo Brewing is the trade name of Brick Brewing, which revealed plans to invest C$3.5m ($2.78m) in Kitchener brewery in January this year.