During the summer, many alcohol producers in the Maritimes, particularly craft brewers, are facing significant challenges related to can supply due to increased demand for beer. Marc Melanson, owner of Flying Boats Brewing in Dieppe, N.B., highlighted this issue, stating that a recent order for five pallets of cans, originally expected to be delivered in 6-8 weeks, has been pushed back to a minimum of 10-12 weeks due to an overloaded supply chain. This situation exemplifies the broader problem within the industry as brewers struggle to meet consumer demand.
Several factors contribute to these shipment delays. The pandemic initially forced breweries to pivot from keg sales—commonly used for restaurants—to filling cans due to public health measures that kept people at home. This shift not only increased the immediate demand for cans but also left producers scrambling to find sufficient supplies. Serge Nadeau, co-owner of CAVOK Brewing Co. in Dieppe, emphasized that cans have become scarce, facing competition not only from breweries but also from the broader market, including soft drinks and other beverages.
Melanson expressed his concern about running out of certain beer types in the near future. Currently, he has limited stock and fears depletion if solutions to the supply challenges are not found promptly. This urgency is echoed by Emily Tipton, president of the Craft Brewers Association of Nova Scotia, who notes that many breweries operate on a “just-in-time” model, maintaining only a few weeks of inventory rather than a surplus.
Compounding the supply issues are geopolitical concerns. The Canadian Craft Brewers Association has warned about the potential for aluminum tariffs from the U.S., reminiscent of previous disruptions caused by similar threats in 2018. Although Tipton believes the current situation is more about suppliers catching up to the heightened demand rather than an imminent shortage, the situation remains precarious.
As craft breweries navigate these challenges, they seek to advocate for solutions while dealing with the realities of competition and changing market dynamics. The increased demand for consumer products, especially in the beverage sector, underscores the ongoing impact of the pandemic and the need for adaptive strategies within the craft brewing industry. The ability to secure packaging materials will be critical for maintaining production levels and meeting consumer expectations through the summer and beyond.
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