Who Owns Amsterdam Brewery?

If you've ever enjoyed a smooth pint of Amsterdam Blonde or the hoppy delight of Space Invader IPA, you’ve likely wondered: Who owns Amsterdam Brewery? This question is more than just curiosity — it's a peek into the journey of one of Canada's most recognizable craft breweries and what the future holds for its beer-loving fans.

The Roots of Amsterdam Brewery

Amsterdam Brewery was founded in 1986 in Toronto, Ontario — not Amsterdam, Netherlands, as many travelers might assume. It began as a small brewpub called “Amsterdam Brasserie and Brewpub” in Toronto’s entertainment district, helping pioneer Ontario's craft beer movement long before craft beer became a global trend. From its humble beginnings, Amsterdam grew into one of Canada’s most beloved independent breweries.

Ownership Today: Who Actually Owns Amsterdam Brewery?

In 2022, the ownership of Amsterdam Brewery officially changed hands. It was acquired by Royal Unibrew , a Danish beverage company known for owning and distributing various drink brands across Europe and North America. Royal Unibrew bought Amsterdam Brewery as part of its strategy to expand its footprint in the North American beverage market.

This means Amsterdam Brewery is no longer independently owned but is now part of a larger international beverage corporation. Royal Unibrew's acquisition includes the brand’s production facilities, retail operations, and product lines — giving them full control over Amsterdam’s beer production and distribution.

Despite this change, the Amsterdam Brewery brand continues to operate under its original name and identity, preserving its local charm and beer recipes. Many loyal fans have noted that the taste and quality remain consistent — a testament to the brewery's commitment to staying true to its craft roots even under new ownership.

Why the Ownership Matters to Visitors

For visitors in Toronto or planning a beer-themed journey, knowing that Amsterdam Brewery is owned by a large European company may influence your decision — but it doesn’t mean you won’t get an authentic local experience. The Amsterdam Brewhouse at the Harbourfront and the Amsterdam Barrel House in Leaside still offer fresh, locally brewed beer and uniquely Canadian pub menus.

If you're a craft beer purist, you may want to visit other fully independent local breweries as well — but Amsterdam still delivers quality beer, history, and a lively atmosphere. Plus, with Royal Unibrew’s resources, you may see more Amsterdam beers in bars and liquor stores across North America and Europe.

Visiting Amsterdam Brewery: What to Expect

Here are some quick tips for making the most of your Amsterdam Brewery visit in Toronto:

• Try the classics: Don’t leave without trying the Amsterdam Blonde or the crisp and refreshing 3 Speed Lager.
• Book a tour: Guided tours of the brewery facilities are occasionally available — check the website in advance.
• Food and drink combo: The Amsterdam Brewhouse offers beautiful lakeside dining with a full menu to pair with your beer.
• Shop local: Pick up limited-edition brews and exclusive merch directly from the brewery's retail stores.

Local Insight: Is It Still “Craft” Beer?

This question stirs debate in beer circles. Technically, once a brewery is owned by a large company like Royal Unibrew, it’s no longer considered a “craft brewery” by strict definitions. However, if your love of craft beer is based on flavor, creativity, and tradition — Amsterdam Brewery still ticks those boxes.

Toronto locals still include Amsterdam on their brewery crawls and praise it for maintaining quality over the years. It remains a solid introduction to the Canadian craft beer scene for tourists and locals alike.

Conclusion: A Classic With Global Backing

To sum it up: Amsterdam Brewery is currently owned by Royal Unibrew , a Danish beverage conglomerate. While the brewery’s independent status has changed, the experience, flavors, and local culture remain intact. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning beer fan, the Amsterdam Brewery experience continues to be worth raising a glass to — just with a little Danish flair behind the scenes.

FAQs About Amsterdam Brewery Ownership

• Is Amsterdam Brewery still Canadian?
  Yes, its operations are still based in Toronto, but it is now owned by a Danish company.
• Who owns Amsterdam Brewery now?
  Royal Unibrew, a beverage company based in Denmark.
• Did the beer change after the acquisition?
  No major recipe changes have been reported — quality remains consistent.
• Can you visit the brewery?
  Yes! You can visit the Amsterdam Brewhouse and Barrel House in Toronto.