Aegis Brands, the parent company of Canadian coffee roaster Second Cup Coffee, has completed the acquisition of Ottawa-based Bridgehead Coffee.

The C$9.5m ($7.2m) deal was first announced Aegis Brands in December.

Aegis Brands CEO Steven Pelton said: “We are delighted to welcome Bridgehead into the Aegis portfolio of brands as our first acquisition.

“Bridgehead has forged a unique culture and identity in the Ottawa region that resonates with both customers and employees and is poised for growth.

“As well, we expect that Bridgehead’s best practices will benefit our Second Cup brand over time. We look forward to working with Bridgehead’s team to help fuel that growth in the months and years to come.”

The acquisition of Bridgehead is said to be the first for Aegis since the announcement of its new operating structure and strategy in November.

Currently, Bridgehead operates 19 coffeehouses in Ottawa, which also includes Roastery. In addition to coffees, the coffeehouses also offer baked and fresh foods.

Bridgehead will continue as an independent business entity and all its offices will remain in Ottawa.

Tracey Clark, who has been associated with Bridgehead since 2000 and served as its president and CEO, will lead the preservation of Bridgehead’s values in her new role as chief culture officer.

Furthermore, Bridgehead’s Roastmaster Cliff Hansen will continue in the same role, working closely with small-scale farmers.