Naming of the Original 16 Lounge and Patio, and exclusive beer provider highlight partnership
Lethbridge, Alta. – A brewery based around the principles of supporting its community and putting its people first, are continuing that tradition, as Great Western Brewing (GWB) and Lethbridge & District Exhibition (LDE) have announced a multi-year partnership.
Great Western Brewing prides itself on brewing “the highest quality beers in Western Canada,” including the Original 16, Great Western, and Brewhouse brands. As part of the agreement with Lethbridge & District Exhibition, GWB is now the naming partner of the Original 16 Lounge and Patio, a scenic gathering area on the second floor of the Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre with views overlooking Henderson Lake. GWB is also the exclusive beer partner of LDE, meaning Original 16 and Great Western beers will flow at all LDE events where beer is served.
“The Great Western Brewing story is one of history and perseverance, and of creating a high-quality product that puts people first, which resonates with us at Lethbridge & District Exhibition,” says Mike Warkentin, Lethbridge & District Exhibition CEO. “We are thankful for GWB’s partnership and the way the company shares our vision of bringing the community together. As GWB says best, we are excited to ‘celebrate things done well’ as part of this partnership.”
Great Western Brewing was founded in Saskatoon in 1990 by 16 determined and bold employees who pooled their resources to start their own company when the brewery where they worked was being shut down. In the years since, the brand has spread across Saskatchewan and Alberta. With ingredients sourced from Western Canada, including Southern Alberta, GWB is a proud supporter of local agriculture, which aligns with Lethbridge & District Exhibition’s 126 history as an agricultural society.
“When the opportunity to support Lethbridge & District Exhibition came up, it was an easy decision for us to be involved,” says Michael Brennan, Great Western Brewing President and CEO. “This beautiful addition to Lethbridge will be a central gathering point attracting both Lethbridge and area residents, and visitors from around the world. At Great Western, we proudly support the communities that we sell our beer in, and take this opportunity to congratulate the team and we look forward to partnering for years to come.”
The Original 16 Lounge and Patio is available now for bookings for small- and medium-sized celebrations and get-togethers. Original 16 and GWB were also a key part of the Whoop-Up Days and Lethbridge & District Pro Rodeo celebrations, including the Original 16 Stage.
To learn more about the Original 16 Lounge and Patio or to book your event, visit agrifoodhub.ca.
About Great Western Brewing
A group of 16 determined and bold employees stood up, pooled their resources and formed the Great Western Brewing Company. Now, the Great Western Brewing Company is one of Canada's most successful regional brewers and an internationally recognized producer of world-class beer.
From 16 underdogs to prairie premium, O16 and GW light are brewed in the spirit of our 16 founders who risked it all for great beer. Great Western Brewing Company beers are brewed using only the finest, Prairie barley – the best in the world – as well as five choice hop varietals.
About Lethbridge & District Exhibition
Lethbridge & District Exhibition is the premiere destination for bringing people together from all over the world in Southern Alberta. We accelerate economic opportunity through the delivery of memorable experiences. The 268,000 square foot Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre officially opened its doors in August 2023, and is becoming an economic driver of growth for Alberta’s tourism, agriculture and agri-food sectors. The Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre is expected to contribute more than $90 million annually to the regional economy. For more information, visit agrifoodhub.ca.