Business

Miller seeks divorce from Molson Coors in Canada

Miller Brewing Company says it's aiming to end its Canadian licensing agreement with Molson Coors Canada this summer.

Brewer wants to end pact with Molson and start selling its beer itself in Canada

SABMiller, the maker of Miller Genuine Draft, wants to end a deal with Molson Coors that sees the latter handle selling Miller products in Canada. (Andy Clark/Reuters)

Miller Brewing Company says it's aiming to end its Canadian licensing agreement with Molson Coors Canada this summer.

The agreement covers such well-known brands as Millers Genuine Draft, Miller Lite and Miller High Life.

Miller's managing director for Canada, Paul Gurr, says there's an opportunity to grow its brands in Canada.

"We see Canada as a country with a rich tradition of beer appreciation and believe we can better serve Canadians needs through this transition," Gurr said in a statement.

Molson Coors Canada has filed a suit in Ontario to prevent the move but Miller says it gave the required six-month notication in January and it expects the termination to take effect on July 22.

Miller Brewing Co. is a subsidiary of SABMiller PLC, a multinational with its headquarters in the United Kingdom.