2026 Impact Awards Winner: Carlsberg Canada

Following Carlsberg Canada’s acquisition of Waterloo Brewing in 2023, the organization recognized the importance of creating a unified culture that would bring together employees from both businesses, while preserving the strengths that made each company successful. 

To support integration and ensure employees felt engaged, valued and connected, Carlsberg Canada conducted employee surveys and listening sessions to better understand employee needs and identify opportunities to strengthen workplace culture. 

In response, the company launched a series of employee-focused initiatives designed to foster engagement, celebrate achievements and strengthen connections across the organization. 

These initiatives reinforced the company's growth culture principles by encouraging employees to innovate, develop themselves and others, embrace inclusion and compassion, put consumers first and deliver with excellence. 

The Recognition Hub, including the High Five Club, encourages peer-to-peer recognition of everyday contributions and successes. The Elephant Awards provide monthly recognition for employees who exemplify company values through collaboration, innovation, inclusion, leadership and excellence. 

To improve cross-functional collaboration, the company established Engagement Ambassador Groups, employee-led teams that help strengthen communication, teamwork and culture across the business. 

Carlsberg Canada also introduced social and inclusion-focused initiatives such as DEI Potlucks and Monthly Hoppy Hours, creating opportunities for employees to connect, celebrate diverse backgrounds and build relationships beyond their day-to-day roles. 

Employee feedback directly shaped initiative program development and they were empowered not only to participate but also to help lead many of the initiatives themselves. 

Together, these efforts have strengthened employee engagement, supported integration, improved collaboration and fostered a more connected and inclusive workplace. 

Carlsberg Canada understands that the benefits extend to customers and communities as well, as a more engaged workforce is better positioned to deliver exceptional service and build stronger relationships. The company will continue to seek employee feedback and evolve its programs to ensure they remain relevant, impactful and aligned with the needs of its people.