[thistleclub]

Burlington brewery in talks to take over Lakeport site
(Hamilton Spectator, Meredith Macleod, Mar 12 2014)

Better Bitters Brewing Company, makers of Nickel Brook beer, is in negotiations to take over the space once occupied by Lakeport Brewing.

John Romano, co-founder of Better Bitters, told The Spectator Wednesday that he is moving brewing equipment into another building on Hamilton Port Authority land and is working on a deal with the city and the port authority.

"Nothing is solidified," said Romano. "We're looking seriously at it and it's looking OK."

Hamilton Port Authority spokesperson Larissa Fenn said she would not comment on any negotiations before a lease is finalized.

"I can confirm that we are actively seeking a new tenant for the former brewery at 201 Burlington St.," she wrote in an email.

"Needless to say, we would love to see that building put back to use as a brewery. Not only was it purpose-built for brewing, it is in a great location at the doorstep of the redeveloping west harbour."

Efforts to reach city officials, including Ward 2 Councillor Jason Farr, were not successful Wednesday afternoon. City Hall closed early due to the snowstorm.

Romano says Hamilton would become the company's main production site, but Nickel Brook would maintain its micro-brewery and retail operation in Burlington. Romano says his business needs more space to boost production.


Read it in full here.