Steve Beauchesne, CEO of the company, which has experienced growth at a compounded rate of 45 per cent year-over-year, confirmed that the business will start the process on 1 July.

Employing 150 staff, these individuals will become co-owners in the business and as a result, have shared responsibility for the brewery’s future and continued growth.

Beauchesne explained: “My Dad and I started Beau’s ten years ago with the promise of making excellent, flavourful beer, and using our brewery as a force for good.

“Our success during this time is strongly rooted in the support of our employees and fans, who have always believed in our promise.”

Despite the rarity of ESOP offerings in the craft beer sector, Beauchesne said he was happy to go against the grain.

He added: “By handing the reins over to our employees we are saying this changes everything, because this change is everything.

“We look forward to our expansion and success across Canada, with the help of our new company stewards.”