GoodLot beer available for curbside pickup during COVID-19

Written By REBECCA WESTON

Popular craft beer stop, GoodLot Brewery, has had to adapt their operations amidst COVID-19. 

GoodLot has been deemed an essential service, since they sell their beer at the LCBO, grocery stores and the Beer Store, but with the closure of bars and restaurants, they have had to make changes to  their operations. 

“Bars and restaurants account for roughly one third of our business,” said owner Phil Winters. 

Since these closures, the brewery has stopped selling kegs.  

“We are now packing everything into cans and bottles for take away at curb side pick-up.”

Owners Phil and Gail Winters have seen an increased demand for their beer in recent times, not only at their curbside pick-up but also in stores.

“Folks would drop in, try some beer, and leave with a six pack,” said Phil Winters. “Now we are seeing orders of 12 to 36 beers at a time, usually a variety.” 

To make sure staff and customers are all safe, the GoodLot team started to disinfect new spots around the farm, such as door handles. 

Brewer, Zac Tremaine, has been making and bottling all of the beer himself.  

2019 was the first year GoodLot opened their patio, where people could come and enjoy the farm while trying different beers. 

“Our patio would have opened this past weekend, but of course it has to remain closed in compliance with the Province of Ontario,” said Phil Winters. 

With the patio not being open, it has created “a huge change as it is a defining characteristic of GoodLot,” said Phil Winters. 

“What a lesson in being prepared in business and learning how to pivot your business quickly to meet the current health challenge and stay in business,” said Phil Winters. 

Overall, the Caledon community has shown overwhelming positive responses and support for GoodLot.

This ongoing support makes GoodLot, feel “very lucky” to call Caledon home, Phil Winters said.

“We are touched by how supportive the community has been, with some expressing ‘we really want to make sure you are here when this pandemic pass,'” said Phil Winters.