The past month has been, to say the least, challenging. However, we at BottomLine have been completely buoyed by seeing so many businesses adapting, pivoting and doing everything they can to be operational. It also brings us pride to see so many Calgary businesses doing what they can to support and help their community, and that is exemplified by the team at Annex Ales.
Annex was one of the first microbreweries out of the gate during Alberta’s craft beer boom a few years ago, opening up a tap room in in the Foothills industrial park, and branching into craft sodas, before expanding their operations again to include a boozy soda/cocktail bar and a tasty little burger and hotdog stand called Lil’ Empire Burger (you might remember them from a previous Evolutionary Leaders Story).
When the COVID shutdown hit, Annex quickly pivoted their operation into making hand sanitizer alongside their delicious and hoppy beers. According to founder and brewer Andrew Bullied, they are now selling hand sanitizer faster than they can make it, and will continue to keep making it as long as there’s demand. They’re also going and donating 10% of the proceeds to organizations that help those in need in Calgary. And yes, it does come in a custom tall can that you use to refill containers.
Recently Greg from our team had a conversation with Andrew from Annex to talk about his journey from beer enthusiast to brewery owner, and how they’ve been pivoted in the COVID era:
If you’re feeling a thirst, we highly recommend hitting up the Annex team, or any local brewery for their beers directly. Your purchase helps keep Calgarians employed and businesses operating.
Do you know of a business that’s trying to change the game, do some good in their community and challenge the status quo? We’d love to feature them on our next Evolutionary Leaders Series. Drop us a line today to put us in the know!
