Otter Co-op is expanding its newly developed liquor division with three new locations in the province, including one in Abbotsford.
Announced Friday (Aug. 7), the Aldergrove-borne enterprise plans to convert the Highwayman liquor store in Abbotsford into its sixth Angry Otter Liquor location on Aug. 31.
The Highwayman pub – at 32470 Simon Ave. – will be one of the Co-op’s first-ever hospitality locations and will retain its name.
Highwayman owner Diane Davies is turning over the business after 44 years.
“This company was chosen because they will carry on the legacy of the Highwayman. Although the liquor store will be re-named, the Highwayman Pub will maintain its name and (it’s) business as usual,” she said.
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Davies thanked all her family, friends, staff and customers for their support over the years.
“I could not have done it without you, and will definitely be visiting you as a regular customer,” she said.
The news comes just a week after Otter Co-op announced its plans to break ground in Summerland with a fifth location, in place of Peacock’s Perch liquor store.
Otter is also nearing a deal to purchase a North Vancouver tap house and brewery, the Hearthstone, which is owned by the Springs Group of liquor stores.
The pub and brewery will retain their current names.
READ MORE: Otter Co-op opens up shop in East Abbotsford
Co-op CEO Jack Nicholson said “we are delighted to continue expanding in the Okanagan,” Nicholson enthused.
“We look forward to joining the Summerland neighborhood and becoming a member of your community,” he voiced to locals.
Peacock’s Perch will join three other Angry Otter Liquor stores in the Fraser Valley – with two locations currently in east Abbotsford and one soon to be in place of the Highwayman.
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Co-op first launched its venture in liquor in February 2019, with its first store on 248 Street built next to its flagship Aldergrove retail operation.
The store was rebranded along with other operating locations in January to suit the name of its signature wines – Angry Otter.
“As we are not able to have the stores branded Otter Co-op under current legislation, we feel this is a nice alternative to recognize that Angry Otter is part of the Otter family of brands,” explained Nicholson.
The current purchase date set for the Hearthstone Brewery is Sept. 1.
