London’s original family gin distiller, Hayman’s has launched an international on-pack promotional retail competition offering gin shoppers the opportunity of winning a trip to London. Across retail and digital platforms, the competition showcases all that is iconic about London and gin.

The on-pack promotion features a bottle neck tag offering gin shoppers in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Croatia and Hungary the chance to win an all-expenses trip to London worth more than £7000. The prize includes 6-nights luxury hotel stay, afternoon tea at The Covent Garden Hotel, dinner, cocktails and tickets to a West End LW Theatres show – as well as a trip to Hayman’s, London’s favourite* gin distillery.

To enter, entrants should purchase a (70cl) bottle of Hayman’s and scan the QR code on the neck tag and enter via competition landing page. A winner will be selected in December 2026.

Miranda Hayman, co-owner and 5th generation said: “As London’s original gin, we wanted to celebrate the iconic landmarks and occasions which are so embedded in our city. The chance to win a trip to London is a wonderful prize – from enjoying classic cocktails at London landmarks, a West End performance and, of course, visiting our London Distillery!

Hayman’s is the last family of original gin distillers still making gin in London today and sold in more than 70 countries around the world.

NEW YORK, May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The House of Suntory, the founding house of Japanese whisky, announces Hibiki Whisky's first global campaign, "The Masterpiece of Japanese Artistry," inviting consumers worldwide to experience key elements of Japanese culture through whisky, nature, and contemporary artistry. Featuring internationally acclaimed and award–winning actress Anna Sawai in her debut as Hibiki's first Global Ambassador, the campaign bridges tradition and modernity through a rare collaboration with one of Japan's oldest-run kimono houses and pinnacle of luxury, Chiso kimono house.

At the heart of the campaign is a cinematic hero film that draws parallels between kimono-making and whisky blending, two crafts shaped by time and precision. Sawai appears as Hibiki's Global Ambassador, wearing a kimono from the historic Chiso kimono house, crafted using traditional yuzen dyeing techniques and seasonal motifs inspired by Japan's landscapes. Within the hero film, a butterfly rests on Anna's hand, echoing the patterns of the Chiso kimono. Subtle yet symbolic, it becomes a thread throughout the campaign. The butterfly, a kokimurasaki (purple) motif, echoes Hibiki's signature kokimurasaki hue, which is found on the neck of the bottle, and is one of Japan's most noble colors.

Embodying both global influence and a deep appreciation for Japanese heritage, Sawai serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, interpreting the quiet strength of Japanese culture for an international audience.

"Becoming Hibiki's first Global Ambassador feels natural because we share the same reverence for Japanese artistry and the beauty found in patience, balance and detail," says Sawai. "Hibiki represents a quiet kind of mastery, something refined over time with care and intention. As an actor, I'm drawn to that same philosophy of craft, where every choice is deliberate, and every moment matters. To represent a brand that embodies the harmony between nature, time and human artistry is incredibly meaningful to me."

Complementing the hero film are two behind-the-scenes features exploring Sawai's discovery of the beauty behind Hibiki and kimono-making, and how elements like water and time shape both.

The film follows Sawai to the Kyoto studio of renowned washi paper artist Eriko Horiki, who has handcrafted the washi labels adorning every Hibiki bottle since 1989. A hallmark of the brand's visual identity, these labels give Hibiki its "face," transforming water, fiber and time into something quietly beautiful and enduring. The other offers an intimate glimpse inside the historic Kyoto atelier of Chiso kimono house, where Sawai is shown an intricate kimono which she wears in the hero film and key campaign visuals.

Celebrated for its refined, complex flavor, Hibiki Whisky is a meticulous blend from Suntory's Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries, reflecting the Japanese concept of 'wa', balance and harmony, through careful blending.

The campaign will run throughout 2026 and includes a kimono installation at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York timed to the opening of the new terminal. Campaign content will launch across key markets including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Northern Europe, China, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Spain, India, Canada, Brazil and Mexico.

A new report, released by The Staffing Agency titled Beyond the Boom: Canada’s Hospitality Labor Market in 2025 and the Road to 2030, shows spending in Canada hit $104 billion in 2025, with employment higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Dining rooms are full again and travel has returned, yet the industry is still struggling to hold on to workers.

The Canada-focused report shows that hospitality operators are hiring, but not securing long-term staff. Termed as ‘labor paradox’, the report states that margins are getting strained by part-time roles where students, newcomers and temporary workers fill critical shifts. That keeps operations running, but drives turnover and weakens reliability.

Costs are compounding the issue. Labor is no longer just hourly pay. It now includes higher wage floors, added premiums in expensive cities, benefits and the ongoing cost of turnover and training. Margins are tightening even as demand holds. “In Canada, the wage increase isn’t a threshold; it’s the new baseline,” said Steven Kamali, CEO of The Staffing Agency. “The question now isn’t if we can pay more, but if we can make the model work.”

Another trend revealed in the report is that housing has emerged as the defining fault line. In major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal, workers can’t afford to live near their jobs. So, commute becomes longer and shits go unfilled. Union activity is also rising in urban centers, reshaping scheduling, pay structures, and operations.

Kamali adds, “The pressure is not limited to Canada. In the United States also, wage growth is outpacing productivity in many markets, while housing constraints continue to shape labor availability. Canada’s reliance on international talent adds another layer of sensitivity to policy changes.”

The path forward should be to build a more reliable talent pipeline, address housing near job centers, and tailor workforce strategies by region. Without this, growth will remain uneven. You can view the full report here.

BRACEBRIDGE, Ontario, May 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This summer, Muskoka Brewery is celebrating a major milestone: 30 years of brewing independently in the heart of Muskoka. What began in June 1996 as a small, passionate operation has grown into one of Ontario’s most beloved craft breweries — built on a deep connection to a place, a commitment to quality, and the people who have shaped the journey every step of the way.

Founded in 1996, Muskoka Brewery’s earliest days were defined by grit, creativity, and a belief that great beer could be inspired by the land and lifestyle of Muskoka itself. From its first brews — including Cream Ale, the brewery’s original beer — to navigating early challenges in a then-nascent craft beer landscape, Muskoka Brewery was forged by perseverance and a hands-on approach to brewing. That spirit still defines the brand today, anchored by its home base in Bracebridge and a strong sense of independence.

The People Behind the Pints

At the heart of Muskoka Brewery’s 30-year story are the people who made it possible. From founders Gary McMullen and Kirk Evans, to long-tenured team members who have been part of the journey since the earliest days, the brewery’s success is rooted in collaboration, passion, and shared pride. Today, the business is led by Todd Lewin and Bob MacDonald, alongside a dedicated team of brewers, creators, operators, and partners who continue to push the brand forward while staying true to its roots.

“As we celebrate 30 years, it’s impossible to separate the beer from the people,” says the Todd Lewin, President. “This milestone belongs to everyone who has brewed here, worked here, partnered with us, and supported us along the way.”

Milestones That Shaped a Generation of Craft Fans

Over three decades, Muskoka Brewery has introduced beers that have become true fan favourites — and category game changers. From Cream Ale, the beer that started it all, to the bold arrival of Mad Tom, to Detour that ushered in the beginning of session IPA’s, these beers helped define Ontario’s modern craft beer movement and earned a loyal following across the province.

To honour those milestones, Muskoka Brewery is bringing the past to the present with a Throwback Pack — a nostalgia-fuelled collection of six classic brews from across the decades. The limited-time release celebrates the beers that shaped the brewery’s legacy and the fans who’ve been there from the beginning. Watch for the pack arriving on LCBO shelves any day now.

Where to Experience the 30th Anniversary This Summer

Muskoka Brewery’s 30th Anniversary celebration extends far beyond the brewery gates, with multiple ways for fans to join in:

Discover the Fresh New Look Wherever You Shop

Muskoka Brewery has just unveiled an updated packaging design to celebrate its 30th anniversary. This refresh honours the brewery's heritage while embracing a modern style for the future. Fans across Ontario may already notice the new look popping up at The Beer Store, LCBO, grocery stores, and convenience shops, spreading the excitement to shelves throughout the province.

30th Anniversary Collection

Premium, must-have anniversary merchandise will be available exclusively at the brewery Taproom and online, created to mark the milestone in true Muskoka style.

Classics on Tap

Muskoka Brewery is kicking off the anniversary celebrations with their friends at Beertown and Socialable, exclusively pouring Muskoka throwback brews on tap throughout May - bringing the celebration to communities across the province with a partner that truly champions craft beer.

Visit any Beertown Public House or Socialable Kitchen & Tavern location from May 5–Jun 1, 2026, order a Muskoka Brewery throwback brew, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the Ultimate Muskoka Getaway at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville.

“For 30 years, Muskoka Brewery has been at the forefront of Ontario’s craft beer movement. Showcasing five throwback brews on tap is our way of celebrating the beers that shaped their story. From staff favourites to timeless classics, this lineup honours their impact while reflecting our commitment to Ontario craft. We’re excited to share them with our guests and raise a glass to a true craft icon.”

– Jennifer Tamse, Director of Beer & Beverage

Sip With Us Across the Province

Beyond Beertown & Socialable, the celebration continues at participating bars and restaurants across Ontario. Select venues will feature 30th Anniversary glassware along with in-market contesting and promotional activations.

Keep an eye out for the 30th Anniversary Muskoka logo at your local establishments for details. Promotions and offerings may vary by account or venue.

Join Us June 6 for the Party of the Year

The official kickoff of the anniversary celebrations happens June 6 at the brewery in Bracebridge, as Venture Fest returns for a full day of beer, music, food, and community — celebrating where it all began. Check out full details or buy tickets by clicking here.

Looking Ahead

“Thirty years in, Muskoka Brewery is still grounded in the values that started it all — independence, craftsmanship, connection, and sustainability — while continuing to evolve for the next generation of craft beer drinkers. From investing in more responsible brewing practices to supporting the communities where we live and work, sustainability remains a core commitment as we look ahead.

This anniversary is about more than looking back; it’s about celebrating the community we’ve built and recommitting to what comes next. As part of this milestone year, we’re launching a new media campaign supported by the largest marketing investment in our history. Even amid ongoing economic pressures, we believe deeply in our brand, our positioning, and the values that have guided us for three decades.

With significant changes across Ontario’s beverage alcohol landscape over the past two years, we’re more committed than ever to winning — bringing our positioning to life through impactful communications that resonate with today’s consumers and lay the foundation for long-term growth.”

– Kristin MacDonald, VP of Commercial

For more information on Muskoka Brewery’s 30th Anniversary celebrations, visit https://muskokabrewery.com