SUBSCRIBE & WIN! Sign up for the Daily CHAT News Today Newsletter for a chance to win a $75 South Country Co-op gift card!

Local business hurdles pandemic delays with new expansion

Oct 7, 2021 | 5:47 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The pandemic has placed a good share of hurdles in the way of many businesses, but at least one Medicine Hat operation is pushing ahead with expansion nonetheless.

Pending inspections, the Grit City Distillery’s second location is set to open next week at the Badlands View building, which is adjacent to the Medicine Hat Tourism Centre.

The owners had intended to finish construction by summer at the latest, but pandemic measures have slowed them down.

However, they say the prolonged schedule will be worth the wait for customers.

“We’re one of the only places in Medicine Hat as far as a commercial business to be on a third storey like this so we’re really excited about that. We’re excited to offer some views and some styles of the food and beverage industry no one’s ever seen before. We’re going to be offering 25 of the best whiskeys in the world,” Andy Schmunk said.

With a set-up on the top floor, customers at the new “steak and spirit” lounge will have a unique view that includes the nearby Medicine Hat College grounds.

However, Schmunk says Grit City’s own whiskey won’t be served immediately as it’s still in the process of aging.