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E-commerce and public support have been key ingredients for Dawson Trail Craft Brewery’s success

Co-founder George Renner says loyal customers have helped out more than they know. 

Despite life feeling like a constant scramble over the past year and a half, George Renner considers himself lucky. The co-founder of Dawson Trail Craft Brewery has been able to keep his business running amidst constant, unpredictable change.

“We’re just living day by day, week by week, month by month, trying to adapt based on what new government announcement comes out,” Renner says, adding that it’s been particularly challenging because the brewery has to order ingredients and supplies months in advance.

Dawson Trail, a local gem in the regional craft beer industry, has existed since late 2016 and prided itself on its unique selection of brews made with fresh, raw ingredients that hit patrons taste buds in all the right ways. Familiar flavours consist of: Border Run, The Imposter, Running Stone and Bae’s Haze.

The brewery’s location, nestled on the corner of Copper Crescent and Tungsten Street, has traditionally made its product accessible to anyone who wishes to pass through its doors. A number of local establishments have also sold the beer. However, when the pandemic struck, that quickly changed.

Within the first few weeks of the world shutting down, Renner says that he knew that it would be a good idea to start-up an online store to make their beer accessible. Today that option of shopping is still available. The brewery offers same day shipping on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays when orders are placed by 4 p.m. And orders of more than $40 get their shipping costs waived.

According to Renner, the online option has been one saving grace during the pandemic. However, he adds, that e-commerce sales wouldn’t be successful without the loyal base of customers who have never faltered in expressing support.

“People in this community have been awesome. It’s helped so much,” he says. “We just want people to be able enjoy a cold beer that brings some sense of normalcy, which seems to be lacking right now.”

As the weather heats up and restrictions ease, Renner plans on opening up a patio space in the brewery’s driveway. He notes that there are also plans to expand. In the fall, he plans on opening up a taproom at the Goods & Co. Market in downtown Port Arthur.

“We’ve been talking about this for a long time, so I can’t believe that it could be happening soon,” he says of the new location. “I’m looking forward to it. We’re actually going to be moving to the Dawson trail.”  

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