CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - March 15, 2012) -Big Rock Brewery Inc. (TSX:BR) ("Big Rock" or the "the Brewery") announced today that Ed McNally has retired from the position of Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. McNally, who founded the Brewery in 1985, will retain his position as Chairman of the Board. "Ed has been instrumental in the success of Big Rock and his name and legacy will always be synonymous with the Big Rock brand" said the Board. "We are pleased to have the benefit of Ed's continued involvement on the Board." When asked what his plans are outside of Big Rock, Ed responded "I look forward to having more time to spend with my other two passions: my wife Linda and my berry plantation."

In conjunction with Mr. McNally's retirement, Big Rock announced today that after an extensive search, Mr. Robert Sartor has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Sartor previously served as Chief Executive Officer of The Forzani Group Limited ("Forzani") from 2003 until it was acquired by Canadian Tire Corporation in August 2011. Prior to his role as CEO at Forzani, Mr. Sartor served as that company's President from 2000 to 2003 and its Chief Financial Officer from 1997 to 2000. Prior to joining Forzani, he held senior financial roles with Avenor Inc., the Oshawa Group and Kraft General Foods Canada. "On behalf of the Board, I am very pleased to welcome Bob to the Big Rock organization. We are thrilled to have attracted an executive of his caliber and experience" said Mr. McNally. "Based on his track record, we expect Bob will enhance the Brewery's prospects for continued growth and profitability."

About Big Rock Brewery Inc.

Big Rock Brewery Inc. - headquartered in Calgary, Alberta - produces premium, all-natural craft beers. As Canada's leading craft brewer Big Rock boasts a family of twelve exceptional ales and lagers (including their newest brew IPA), Rock Creek dry apple cider and an ongoing selection of seasonal beers soon to be unveiled in the new Brewmaster's Series. Big Rock products are sold in nine provinces and three territories in Canada and they are also available in Korea.

For more information on Big Rock Brewery visit [ bigrockbeer.com ].