Plan B Means Plan Beer for Smithers

Glen Ingram and Mark Gillis are self-employed Web developers in the small northern community of Smithers. Over the last few years they’ve been perfecting brewing techniques and recipes at home. Now they’ve taken the plunge and implemented Plan B — Plan B Brewing, that is.

Plan B just received their manufacturing license and approval from Northern Health. The first batch of beer was supposed to have been brewed this weekend. However, unless you live in Smithers, you are unlikely to get this beer any time soon. Gillis and Ingram are keeping things small to begin with, producing only enough to supply area residents. There will be two staple beers and another one or two that will rotate through different styles.

In keeping with the local focus, Ingram and Gillis have employed their fellow citizens where possible. EarthStone Concrete Works was contracted to produce the tasting room counter tops. Facundo Gastiazoro designed and produced the sign above. There are even residents who are planning to grow hops for Plan B. Malt, however, must be purchased from Gambrinus Malting, 625 miles away in Armstrong.

Plan B also intends to be as close to a zero waste operation as possible. They are distributing their beer in 1L reusable swing-top bottles and have had bags custom-made for the purpose.

For more photos of Plan B and to follow their progress, see their Facebook page.