The ABQ is implementing an Incentive Premium to encourage the return of standard industry bottles.

December 8, 2008 - The Quebec Brewers Association (QBA) and its members Labatt and Molson breweries, along with their partner, l’Association des détaillants en alimentation du Québec (ADAQ) are pleased to announce the implementation of an Environmental Incentive Premium which will promote the recuperation of the refillable glass 341 ml Standard Bottle . This new measure will come into effect on April 1st, 2009.

The widespread use of the standard brown glass bottle has made the Quebec brewing industry a world leader in sustainable environmental practices. Over 95% of standard bottles are recuperated from consumers through a highly efficient and century-old private deposit system. Recuperated bottles are then washed, sterilized and refilled, a cycle which may turn over up to fifteen times, before the glass is ultimately recycled for other uses. The deposit system is incomparable as a means of promoting sustainable development in addition to offering viable economic advantages to all parties involved in the process. It is important to remember that each year, the deposit system jointly operated by brewers and retailers diverts more than 1.4 billion glass bottles from being disposed of in less environmentally sound ways.

Over the last few years, the bottle deposit system has shown a very high rate of return. Nevertheless, the new Incentive Premium will serve to encourage retailers to continue their efforts in preserving the environment. The efficient recuperation of standard industry bottles is paramount to the preservation of the current system and the Premium will help ensure that more bottles are returned to brewers in conditions best suited for re-use.

The Premium will come into effect on April 1st, 2009 and will be implemented in two phases. Firstly, a premium of $0.10 per metric case (a case of 24 refillable 341 ml standard glass beer bottles) will be paid to all Quebec retailers who hold beer vendor permits up until January 31, 2012. Secondly, effective February 1st, 2012, the premium will increase to $0.24 per metric case. Overall, the implementation of the new Incentive Premium will entail an annual investment of more than $15 million by Quebec’s large brewers.

ABOUT THE QUEBEC BREWERS ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1943, the Quebec Brewers Association (QBA) represents Quebec's large breweries. As THE reference for the beer industry in Quebec, it promotes the industry's interests among various government bodies and the media.

On its 65th anniversary, the ABQ points out that the beer industry generates close to 5,000 direct jobs and, through its support of sports and cultural activities, is recognized as one of the leading corporate citizens in the province. The beer industry is also concerned with responsible drinking, the environment and recycling. For more information, visit www.brasseurs.qc.ca.

Source : Quebec Brewers Association

For information :

Quebec Brewers Association
Tel : (514) 284-9199