Discover the inspiring journey of Brian Harris and his family behind Russell Brewing Company—craft beer pioneers shaping Canada’s brewing scene.
Introduction
In the heart of British Columbia’s thriving craft beer industry stands a family whose passion for quality and innovation has made waves—Brian Harris and his family, the dynamic force behind Russell Brewing Company. As a proudly Canadian brand, Russell Brewing has become a staple in the local craft beer community, known for its bold flavors, commitment to sustainability, and strong community roots. This blog dives deep into the story of Brian Harris, charting his early life, entrepreneurial journey, and how his family’s involvement helped shape one of Canada’s most recognized independent breweries. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone inspired by homegrown business success, the Harris family’s story is a compelling testament to perseverance and purpose.
Early Life and Background
Brian Harris hails from British Columbia, where his appreciation for local craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit took root early on. Growing up in a family that valued hard work, creativity, and community, Brian was naturally drawn to business from a young age. He pursued his education in business administration and marketing—equipping himself with the tools needed to enter and navigate the competitive Canadian business landscape.
His family shared his vision for building something uniquely Canadian, and their mutual support laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a successful venture in the craft beer industry. The values of collaboration, ethical entrepreneurship, and quality craftsmanship became defining pillars for the Harris family, especially as they began exploring opportunities in British Columbia’s burgeoning craft beverage sector.
Career Journey
Brian Harris’s professional journey is closely tied to the resurgence of independent craft brewing in Canada. After a successful stint in business management and consulting, he was drawn to the potential of revitalizing a beloved but struggling local brand—Russell Brewing Company, founded in 1995 in Surrey, B.C.
Under Harris’s leadership, Russell Brewing underwent a transformation. What began as a traditional brewery evolved into a bold, experimental brand that pushed boundaries while staying true to its roots. Brian, alongside his family, focused on updating brewing techniques, introducing seasonal and small-batch innovations, and investing in eco-conscious production methods.
One of the key turning points came when Russell Brewing gained recognition for its high-quality India Pale Ales (IPAs) and lagers. The company’s rebranding efforts under Brian’s direction emphasized bold flavors, storytelling, and community partnerships—something that set them apart in a competitive market. Brian’s strategic acumen combined with his deep respect for beer-making traditions enabled the brand to earn accolades at national craft beer awards, significantly growing its distribution across Western Canada.
His hands-on approach—often seen engaging directly with the brewing team or hosting community tasting events—helped build a loyal customer base. With family members involved in both operations and outreach, Russell Brewing became more than a business—it became a brand with a soul.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
Brian Harris’s most significant achievement lies in turning Russell Brewing into a celebrated Canadian success story. Under his leadership, the brand has not only grown in scale but has become synonymous with innovation, authenticity, and quality. Russell Brewing has won multiple awards, including recognition for its seasonal specialties like the Blood Alley Bitter and IPAs.
Public perception of Brian is overwhelmingly positive—he is seen as an industry thought leader, a community-first entrepreneur, and a champion of Canadian craftsmanship. His emphasis on sustainability, fair employment, and community involvement has earned Russell Brewing widespread respect in local and national circles. Collaborations with local artists, food brands, and events have helped foster deeper community connections.
Challenges
Like any entrepreneurial journey, Brian Harris faced his share of challenges. From fluctuating ingredient costs and supply chain disruptions to navigating the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the hospitality industry, Russell Brewing had to stay agile. Brian and his team quickly pivoted to canning and retail distribution, which not only kept the brand afloat but also expanded its market reach. These experiences have further solidified his reputation as a resilient and forward-thinking leader.
Current Role & Future Outlook
Today, Brian Harris continues to lead Russell Brewing Company as CEO and visionary. His current focus is on expanding the brewery’s national footprint, incorporating AI and data tools for efficient brewing processes, and promoting sustainability through eco-friendly packaging and local sourcing.
Looking ahead, Brian and his family aim to take Russell Brewing global, while staying grounded in Canadian values. Plans for opening a flagship tasting room and expanding their seasonal beer program reflect a strong commitment to both innovation and tradition.
Conclusion
Brian Harris and his family represent the heart of Canadian entrepreneurship—bold, authentic, and community-driven. Through Russell Brewing Company, they have revived and redefined what it means to be a modern craft brewery in Canada. Their story is not just about hops and barley, but about legacy, resilience, and the power of family-led vision. In a world of mass production, the Harris family’s dedication to small-batch excellence continues to make a lasting impression—and they show no signs of slowing down.
