What happened to Carling O Keefe?

Answered by Robert Golston

Carling O'Keefe, a popular brewery in Canada, underwent some significant changes over the years. In 1979, Carling O'Keefe Brewery merged with the Molson Brewery, forming Carling O'Keefe Breweries of Canada Limited. This merger created a powerhouse in the industry, combining two well-established and respected brands.

However, the story doesn't end there. In 1989, Molson acquired full control of Carling O'Keefe, becoming the sole owner of the brewery. This acquisition allowed Molson to expand its portfolio and solidify its position as one of the leading brewing companies in Canada.

Fast forward to 2005, another significant development occurred. Molson merged with Coors Brewing Company, forming Molson Coors Brewing Company. This merger brought together two iconic companies with a rich history and global recognition. As a result, Carling O'Keefe became a part of the newly formed Molson Coors Brewing Company.

Today, Carling brands are owned and managed by the Molson Coors Brewing Company. The Carling O'Keefe brewery in Toronto, located on Carlingview Drive (aptly named after the brewery), is now operated by Molson. It serves as a production facility for various brands under the Molson Coors portfolio, including Carling.

It is worth noting that Carling has a long-standing presence in the Canadian beer market. The brand has been enjoyed by beer drinkers across the country for decades. Its ownership by Molson Coors has allowed it to continue thriving and evolving to meet the changing preferences of consumers.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to witness the impact of these changes in the industry. The merger between Molson and Coors brought together the expertise and resources of two renowned brewing companies, allowing for innovation and growth. Carling, being a part of this larger entity, benefits from the collective knowledge and experience of both Molson and Coors.

In my personal experience, I have seen Carling evolve and adapt to the ever-changing beer landscape. The brand has introduced new flavors and variations to cater to different consumer preferences, while still staying true to its roots. It continues to be a popular choice among beer enthusiasts, both in Canada and internationally.

Carling O'Keefe underwent various transformations over the years. From its merger with Molson to its current ownership by Molson Coors Brewing Company, the brand has remained a staple in the Canadian beer market. The Carling O'Keefe brewery in Toronto now operates as a Molson facility, producing a range of beers under the Carling brand. Through these changes, Carling has continued to thrive and evolve, exemplifying the resilience and adaptability of the brewing industry.