Vancouver turns to craft beer to boost transit revenue
24 June 2025
by William Thorpe
Vancouver’s regional transit authority, TransLink, has launched a limited-edition beer in partnership with Patina Brewing Company, as part of a broader strategy to generate new sources of revenue beyond fares.
The beer, named Platform Pilsner, is now available at the Patina Brew House in Port Coquitlam and at select liquor stores across Metro Vancouver. Just 1,500 four-packs have been produced.
“TransLink is always looking for creative ways to generate revenue beyond transit fares,” a TransLink spokesperson told Cities Today. “The funds generated from the Platform Pilsner will help to support the movement of goods and people throughout Metro Vancouver.”
The agency said details of the agreement could not be disclosed due to business confidentiality, but noted that “Patina Brewing Company was chosen because of its history of successful partnerships with community based groups, and for its accessibility and proximity to transit.”
The project was led by TransLink’s Commercial Programs and Partnerships team, which is “actively seeking innovative and engaging ways to generate revenue that support transit services,” according to the spokesperson. “Opportunities arise at different times based on market conditions, partner readiness, and our ability to implement them effectively.”
“The Platform Pilsner is another example of how TransLink is thinking outside the box–or in this case, outside of the fare gate–to generate additional revenue, and support a local business,” said Kevin Quinn, TransLink CEO. “I think both transit and craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate this fun and creative collaboration.”
The beer is brewed in Port Coquitlam using only Canadian ingredients, and features a can design inspired by the West Coast Express livery, developed by TransLink’s in-house creative team.
“Our brewery is just steps from major transit hubs, and many of our customers use transit to get here,” said Sarah Harbor, Patina Brewing Co. Director of Operations. “This collaboration is a celebration of the people and communities we serve.”
The Platform Pilsner is the latest in a series of small-scale commercial partnerships from TransLink, designed to contribute to system funding while engaging with the broader community.
Image: Patina Brewing Co.
