Weber-Stephen Products expanded its global operations and officially opened its first Canadian office and Weber Grill Academy in Vaughan, Ontario. Jim Stephen, executive chairman and son of barbecue pioneer and Weber founder George Stephen, participated in an on-site cake-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

The opening of the new Canadian headquarters will enable the new, dedicated Weber team to strengthen existing retail and consumer relationships and build new business across Canada. Weber currently has representation in 48 countries worldwide.

The Canadian retail grilling business represents a $250* million industry in Canada and continues to grow.

“As a global leader of grills and accessories, we couldn't think of a better country to expand our presence than in Canada,” said Dale Wytiaz, president of the Americas, Weber-Stephen Products. “The establishment of a Canadian headquarters reflects Weber's long term investment in Canada. This demonstrates our commitment to connecting and engaging with Canadian consumers, while building direct relationships with Canadian retailers that provide access to our products,” he added.

With Weber Canada grill specialist chef Michael P. Clive at the helm, the year-round Weber Grill Academy will offer enthusiastic grillers diverse cooking and grilling lessons, demonstrations and lectures. The brand new facility is Weber's first fully functional, commercial-grade kitchen in Canada dedicated to gas grilling, charcoal grilling and smoking all under one roof in a safe and secure environment.

The Grill Academy will be available for private corporate events, consumer grilling classes, and retail training, providing a unique culinary experience bringing outdoor grilling enthusiasts indoors. Weber Grill Academy classes will begin this fall.

The Grill Academy's features include a state-of-the-art, custom-built ventilation system, enabling both charcoal and gas grilling indoors, plus four fully-equipped, stainless-steel cooking stations.  

“The opening of the Weber Grill Academy will allow us to get closer to our customers and give them an opportunity to experience a fun environment that truly embodies the Weber culture,” said Tony Ferraro, senior vice president and general manager, Weber-Stephen Canada Co.