A renowned beer brewing institution in Chicago, the oldest in the Americas, is relocating to Montreal due to regulatory modifications in the United States, sparking interest locally. Julien Savoie, the head brewer at Brasserie Boswell in Montreal Plateau-Mont-Royal borough, acknowledged the significance of the Siebel Institute in the industry, being one of the few schools in North America specializing in brewing education. Established in 1868, the Siebel Institute of Technology will move to a new location on Ste-Catherine Street East in January. The school highlighted that recent regulatory changes in the U.S. have made it more difficult for international students, who constitute a majority of the student body, to attend classes in person.
John Hannafan, the General Manager of the Siebel Institute, emphasized that the relocation will enhance educational quality and accessibility for international students. The move comes amid cuts to academic research and visa restrictions for foreign students, particularly those from China, implemented by the Trump administration earlier this year. Despite the loss for Chicago’s beer community, Antoine Chagnon, CEO of Lallemand Inc., who acquired the Siebel Institute in 2000, plans to establish a baking academy alongside the brewing school.
The craft beer industry in Quebec has experienced significant growth, contributing to rural economies where over 200 breweries are currently operational. Beer production is estimated to contribute 0.4% to the province’s GDP, generating $3 billion in annual economic benefits. The President of the Association des Brasseurs du Québec, Marie-Eve Myrand, anticipates that the arrival of the Siebel Institute will elevate Quebec’s brewing sector, potentially introducing new expertise to local breweries and enhancing the region’s reputation in the craft beer industry.
Julien Savoie hopes that the school’s presence will bring advanced technical knowledge to Quebec, emphasizing the precision required in brewing. Quebec’s reputation in the global beer market is on the rise, and the relocation of the Siebel Institute is expected to further enhance its standing. Savoie expressed optimism, stating that Quebec’s brewers are well-positioned in the industry and will benefit from the enhanced recognition and expertise brought by the prestigious brewing school.
