As in many states, trying to piece together a network of regional beer distributors in California to cover the entire state is extremely difficult. But seven independent beer wholesalers have developed a novel idea of banding together to offer a shared distribution network called California Beverage Solution.
Like many states, California has few statewide alcohol distributors and those that do cover the entire state are large, mostly wine-focused houses that are very selective in taking on new brands. California Beverage Solution will offer statewide coverage (particularly important for brands wanting to get grocery store approval) using seven distributors who will align their territories to not overlap or leave any gaps. The seven partnering distributors are Stone Distributing, Advance Beverage Company, Donaghy Sales, Heimark Distributing, Markstein Sales Company, Matagrano Beverage and Pacific Beverage.
The group is made up of high-profile distributors with strong retail penetration is each of their respective markets. All but Stone are Anheuser-Busch wholesalers, some of whom lost Constellation Brands to Reyes Beverage Group in recent years and are looking to strengthen their portfolios.
Contact any one of the listed wholesalers for more information.