In November of 1995 when I purchased the brewery, I realized the advantages of our unique position in the beer industry and in the Pittsburgh region. Pittsburgh Brewing Company is the seventh largest brewery in the United States and the only regional brewery that operates independently. Next to Heinz, we utilize more water than any other entity in Pittsburgh. We employ over 260 Pittsburghers, not including the indirect employment we provide to local companies we support. Our building represents a historic landmark in the city of Pittsburgh.
Iron City is an icon in Pittsburgh.
IC Light was our savior in 1978. We have persevered through competitive intervention and have maintained an unbelievably loyal fan base in this region and beyond. Today, similar to the overall efforts of the city of Pittsburgh, we are building a new foundation and reinventing ourselves. We are, in a sense, reintroducing our brands to a group of new consumers. We invite the challenges ahead.