Three Ontario craft breweries have joined forces under a new parent company.
Lake of Bays Brewing, Sawdust City Brewing, and Merit Brewing have announced they are now operating under Original Gravity Beverage + Hospitality Group. The new company will bring the breweries together as one family of brands, while each keeps its own name, identity, and community presence.
President & CEO of Original Gravity, Darren Smith, said the name is a brewing term that refers to the density or sugar content of beer before fermentation. Smith says the name also pays homage to the company’s collective roots in brewing and represents their new beginnings.
“Our goal with Original Gravity is to keep growing what makes each brewery special,” Smith said. “It’s about strengthening our foundation so we can support each brand, grow smarter, and continue doing what we love by making great beer, food, and local spaces for our communities.”
Headquartered in Gravenhurst, the combined production volume of the three breweries ranks Original Gravity among the top ten craft beer producers in the provincial market. Company leaders say they plan to expand their portfolio in 2026 with the addition of ready-to-drink beverages, while continuing to invest in brewing, hospitality, and sales and distribution.
Leadership said the company is structured as a platform for growth, with plans to explore partnerships with other breweries, restaurants, and alternative beverage producers.
“Whether it’s beer, food, or something entirely new, everything we do starts from the same place: a deep love of craft,” Smith said.
