With exactly one zillion breweries operating across America, distribution news is always a steady constant in the CBB mailbox. Every week, we get virtual piles of announcements on new alliances, upcoming state expansions and even reductions from breweries growing and shrinking their distribution footprints. Here is some of that beer distribution news. Enjoy!
Allagash makes long-awaited return to Ohio
Award-winning, Maine-brewed Allagash Brewing Co. is continuing to expand its distribution in the Midwest. Starting in Jane the Maine brewery began offering its beer in Ohio for the first time in 20 years.
“We’ve received so many requests from beer fans to come back to the great state of Ohio. We are thrilled to work with our distribution partner to reintroduce our beers across the entire state.” said Josh Fruchtman, Sales Director, Allagash Brewing Company. “We’re fortunate to have the bandwidth to not only focus on markets close to our home in the Northeast, but to bring Allagash beer to markets across the country where the excitement for us is high.”
Allagash is partnering with Premium Beverage Supply to distribute in Ohio.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Allagash to Ohio!” said Charlie Steffy, Director of Sales at Premium Beverage Supply. “Located in the middle of the country, Ohio has always been blessed with the best craft beer offerings from the West and East Coast, as well as everything in between. However, there has been one glaring brand missing in Ohio — Allagash Brewing Company. Allagash White is not only the most awarded White Ale in the world, it is the most iconic. In the craft beer world, Allagash is understood to be the standard for White Ale. As the craft beer industry has gone a bit wild with creative flavors and over-the-top styles, Allagash White is a beacon for those of us who want a true classic.”
Offerings will be anchored by the brand’s flagship beer, Allagash White (retailed as, 6-packs & 12-packs of 12 oz. cans, and kegs), which last year cemented its status as the most awarded wheat beer in the world with a gold medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival.
Joining the celebrated Allagash White in Ohio is the rest of the brewery’s core portfolio: Tripel (6-pack 12 oz. bottles and kegs) and Curieux (4-pack 12 oz. bottles and kegs), as well as their seasonal House Series (6-pack & 12-pack cans and kegs) that includes Ski House, Surf House and Haunted House.
“Allagash will also bring Ohio some of the most world-class barrel-aged and Belgian-inspired beers in the country,” added Steffy. “A bonus to the exceptional quality of their beer is that Allagash has a great company ethos and culture with respect for the environment, the community and their people. Rob Tod and his team are a very special group and have been doing it right for 30 years. We think Ohioans are going to fall in love with Allagash the way we have, and be inspired by Allagash’s amazing and award winning beers.”
Allagash’s expansion into Ohio coincides with additional milestones for the brewery, which this year is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Allagash recently debuted in Minnesota this past November, as well as to Wisconsin in 2020 and the entire state of Illinois in 2019 — having been in the Chicagoland area for 24 years. In addition to the Midwest, Allagash announced its return to Colorado in December 2024, an expansion that marked the largest distribution footprint for the Maine-based beer brand in nearly fifteen years.
“After a long time away, I’m very excited to be able to come back to Ohio,” said Rob Tod, Founder, Allagash. “I have such fond memories of the people, and the beer culture there. With the quality of Allagash White the best it has ever been, and our current beer lineup, I think we’re in a better position than ever to really resonate with Ohio’s craft beer fans.”
For more information on Allagash Brewing Company and where to find their beer, visit www.allagash.com.
Outlaw Light Beer pours into the heartland with expanded Iowa distribution in 2025
Outlaw Light Beer, a brand which touts its the #1 fastest-growing light domestic beer in the United States, continues its exponential growth, announcing a new distribution partnership covering the Hawkeye State. Outlaw Light is expanding its footprint and is now available via Glazer’s Beer & Beverage, expanding over the western side of the state. Iowans from the rolling fields of the Driftless Area can now enjoy this smooth, easy-drinking light beer.
Brewed in the heart of Colorado by Tivoli Brewing Co., Outlaw Light Beer embodies the hardworking grit and steadfast community spirit that defines Iowa. With its crisp, refreshing taste, just 105 calories per serving and a smooth 4.2% ABV — this light beer is crafted to deliver exceptional flavor with unbeatable quality and affordability. A can of Outlaw is the perfect companion for those who live life their own authentic way — catching the sunset at the Loess Hills.
“From the start, we set out to grow fast, and Iowa has always been a perfect fit for Outlaw Light,” said Ari Opsahl, CEO of Tivoli Brewing Co. “This launch is a big milestone for us — Iowa’s spirit of freedom, adventure and good times aligns with exactly what our brand stands for. Thanks to our partnership with Glazer’s Beer & Beverage, more Iowans can enjoy the fresh, satisfying taste of Outlaw. But this is more than just a beer — it’s a tribute to tradition, resilience and the values that define Iowa.”
That spirit is echoed by some of country music’s biggest names. Chart-topping artists Koe Wetzel and HARDY aren’t just fans of Outlaw Light; they’re investors, bringing their passion and influence to help fuel the brand’s momentum.
“We are thrilled to welcome Outlaw Light to our portfolio at Premier Glazer’s Beer & Beverage of Iowa,” said Mark TenHulzen of Premier Glazer’s Beer & Beverage. “Outlaw is a standout addition that reflects our dedication to offering Iowa consumers fresh, diverse and high-quality beverage choices. With its crisp flavor, clean finish and exceptional value, Outlaw Light stands out. Beyond the product itself, Outlaw brings an active, approachable energy to the light beer category.”
Beer lovers can stock up on Outlaw Light at their favorite retailers, bars and restaurants across the state. Stay tuned for more updates and keep an eye out for special Outlaw Light events, activations and exclusive collaborations tied to Koe Wetzel’s and HARDY’s upcoming tours — including a stop on HARDY’s JIM BOB World Tour in Monticello, Iowa on July 19.
For more information, please visit OutlawBeer.com. To find an ice-cold Outlaw near you, visit OutlawBeer.com/where-to-buy/.
Mother Earth Brew returns to Portland with limited distro and quarterly drops
After a brief hiatus, Mother Earth Brew Co. made its return to the Portland market in June. The re-entry is a strategic trial run, with the brewery offering limited quarterly drops of fresh beer at select craft retailers throughout the metro area.
Mother Earth’s re-launch can be largely attributed the release of an upcoming collaboration IPA with Portland legacy brand, Breakside Brewery, opening the door to forge a new partnership with local distributorship, Maletis Beverage. Mother Earth’s catalogue won’t be limited to just specialty brews though, according to its Sales and Distribution Manager, Kylee Souders:
“We’re taking a thoughtful, strategic approach by timing our market re-entry around limited-time offerings paired with a few core brands, aiming to bring Portland fans a curated mix of our award-winning beers. We’re currently planning quarterly drops with the long-term goal of returning to full-time distribution. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead, and for the chance to serve the Portland craft beer community again.”
The brewery views this new opportunity as a chance to reconnect with loyal customers that have been missing Mother Earth’s presence since its departure, while also introducing its beers to a new generation of craft drinkers in Oregon. Distribution of package and draft will be limited to key independent off-premise craft retailers and tap rooms while supplies last.
Customers in the Portland metro area looking for Mother Earth brews are urged to search near them using Mother Earth’s beer finder at motherearthbrewco.com.
Ferndale Project announces statewide distribution partnership with Imperial Beverage
As breweries across the country face closures due to rising costs, inflation, and slowing demand, one Michigan brewery is standing out as a rare success story. Ferndale Project, the experimental arm of Eastern Market Brewing Co., has officially signed a statewide distribution agreement with Imperial Beverage, making its top-rated, small-batch beers available across Michigan — from Detroit to the Upper Peninsula — for the first time.
“This is a bright spot in a tough time for the industry,” said Dayne Bartscht, founder of both Eastern Market Brewing Co. and Ferndale Project. “We’ve had the opportunity to go statewide for some time, but we waited for the right beers, the right partner, and the right moment. This is that moment.”
From pandemic pivot to breakout brand
The journey began in 2019, when Eastern Market Brewing Co. was brewing at capacity. The team acquired Axle Brewing’s former facility in Ferndale and launched Ferndale Project just weeks before the pandemic hit. What could have been a disaster turned into a springboard for innovation.
Faced with immediate shutdowns, the team leaned into creativity. They pivoted from draft-only to cans, releasing two new beers every week, and even launched “10 businesses in 10 days” to keep staff employed and customers engaged. That resilience helped Ferndale Project not only survive, but thrive.
The brewery retained its team, opened a café, launched its Detroit-style pizza brand Elephant & Co., and became a destination for the flavor-curious. Its taproom-only drops frequently sell out and have earned Untappd ratings that rival national hype breweries.
Strategic distribution, intentional growth
While the beers may be new to shelves across Michigan, the strategy behind the move has been years in the making. In Michigan, franchise laws lock breweries into long-term distributor relationships. For Ferndale Project, that meant waiting until everything aligned — the right moment, the right brand, and most importantly, the right partner.
“This wasn’t a quick decision,” said Bartscht. “We’ve always taken pride in our self-distribution model. It’s helped us grow smart, stay close to our customers, and remain nimble. That approach built the kind of brand strength and market presence that made this opportunity possible.”
Ferndale Project, which has historically self-distributed in limited volumes due to its premium pricing and taproom-driven model, sees this partnership as a strategic test.
“We’re incredibly excited to be partnering with Imperial,” Bartscht added. “They understand who we are, what we stand for, and the kind of beer we’re committed to making. This rollout allows us to bring Ferndale Project to more people across Michigan than ever before, and we’re thrilled to do it alongside a partner who shares our passion for quality and community.”
Eastern Market Brewing Co. will continue to self-distribute independently at scale across Michigan.
Now available: Ferndale Project’s lineup
The first five beers to launch statewide are fan favorites, tested and perfected through direct taproom feedback:
- Flight Pattern: Citra – Double dry-hopped hazy DIPA with hand-selected Citra
- Key Lime Pie A La Mode – Tart and creamy fruited sour with vanilla wafers
- Lemon Meringue A La Mode – Bright citrus, silky texture, pastry-inspired
- Cherry Confetti – Imperial pastry sour with cherry, vanilla, and cake batter
- Raspberry Confetti – Jammy, fruit-forward sour with a rich finish
“We are thrilled to expand our offerings with such a unique and innovative brand,” said Joey Cekola, Co-Owner and CTO of Imperial Beverage. “Ferndale Project’s groundbreaking brewing methods have led them to craft a truly unbelievable lineup of premium beers that are sure to shake up the market, and we are honored to help make them available all over Michigan.”
Already on shelves — and pouring fast
The initial rollout includes placement at:
- All 5 Michigan Total Wine locations
- 15 Busch’s Fresh Food Market stores
- 10 HopCat locations (coming this summer)
Launch-day tastings take place today at Busch’s in South Lyon, Plymouth, Rochester Hills, and Ann Arbor, with more tastings planned at Total Wine and HopCat throughout the summer.
Calling all bars, restaurants and retailers
Ferndale Project is actively expanding to bars, restaurants, and bottle shops throughout the state. Beer buyers are encouraged to contact their Imperial Beverage rep or reach out directly to Dayne Bartscht at 734-882-0818
“This moment is for the community that built us,” said Bartscht. “From the folks who stood in line for our taproom drops to those who delivered beer door-to-door in the early pandemic days, we’re here because of you. And now we get to share that energy — and those beers — with the rest of Michigan.”
HOPWTR expands national footprint with new product launch at Sprouts Farmers Market
HOPWTR, a leader in the non-alcoholic beverage space, is expanding its retail footprint with a major launch at Sprouts Farmers Market. Starting July, HOPWTR’s two latest innovations, Double Hopped and Iced Tea & Lemonade, will be available nationwide in all of Sprouts’ 400+ locations.
Made for those looking to lead healthier lifestyles without having to compromise on taste, HOPWTR combines brewer-approved hops and functional ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics, and contains zero calories, carbs, sugar or alcohol. The new flavors will join fan-favorites like Blood Orange, Mango, and Ruby Red Grapefruit, which are already available at Sprouts locations.
“We’re excited to bring our newest innovations to Sprouts shoppers across the country,” said Jordan Bass, Co-Founder and CEO of HOPWTR. “Sprouts is a natural fit for our brand values; they’re committed to wellness, innovation and helping customers find products that support a healthier lifestyle. We’re thrilled to deepen our partnership and offer unique non-alc choices to their wellness focused community.”
HOPWTR’s newest innovations are set to appeal to the modern drinker who is looking for better-for-you beverages to add into their routines. Double Hopped speaks to the IPA lover, it’s cold dry hopped and micro-filtered for an extra bold and hoppy flavor that’s reminiscent of an IPA. Iced Tea & Lemonade marks HOPWTR’s first ever line expansion and was created for those who are searching for a guilt-free, alcohol-free alternative to their favorite hard tea RTDs. Lightly carbonated and crafted with Citra, Amarillo, Mosaic and Azacca hops, it blends classic flavors like black tea and zesty lemonade for the perfect summer sip. Both flavors are available at Sprouts for an SRP of $9.99 for a 6-pack.
As the #2 non-alcoholic adult beverage brand in the Natural Channel and the #1 hoppy water by market share, HOPWTR is redefining what non-alc drinks look like. With growing national distribution, the brand continues to lead the movement toward better-for-you beverage choices that don’t compromise on flavor or function.
Rupee Indian beer is now available at Walmart
Rupee Beer which started its journey in brewing more then five years ago in Portland, Maine, is bringing India to mainstream America via beer. Inspired by India, and brewed for a globally curious consumer, Rupee’s line of easy-to-enjoy brews are specially crafted to pair with Indian, spicy and global flavors. Beyond Indian cuisine, think Thai, Middle Eastern, Caribbean, Latin flavors and beyond.
From the brands inception, Rupee has been a mission-centric organization on a quest to reimagine the way the world enjoys beer with global cuisine, while helping enhance the visibility of India — now the most populated country on earth, where beer consumption continues to become more and more of a common sight among India’s emerging consumers.
Rupee’s award-winning recipes have been featured in numerous global media publications, and its range includes an award-winning Basmati Rice Lager, British-India Pale Ale, and seasonal Mango Wheat Ale. Adding to the array of regional and national chains the brand is available in, today the brand announces its launch and availability at the world’s largest retailer — Walmart, with entry into select stores across the DMV.
Breakthru Beverage Group recognized as a US Best Managed Company for the fourth year, achieving gold status
Breakthru Beverage Group, one of the leading beverage wholesalers in the United States and the largest broker in Canada, representing a portfolio of premier spirits, wine, beer and non-alcoholic brands, is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2025 US Best Managed Company Gold Winner, a distinction for companies who’ve received the honor four years in a row. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies.
The 2025 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people, as well as maintaining financial performance and governance. Designees drove their businesses forward while remaining dedicated to their people and focusing on their customers. Advanced technology, including AI, took a center role for most of these companies, to create efficiencies and enhance the quality of products and experiences.
“We’re honored to be selected as a US Best Managed Company for the fourth year in a row,” said Tom Bené, President and CEO at Breakthru Beverage Group. “Achieving Gold Winner status is a direct result of the incredible dedication and hard work that our leadership team and our associates bring to Breakthru every day. It’s their commitment to ‘executional excellence,’ while delivering on our mission to be the distributor of choice and easiest distributor to work with that has helped us earn this honor.”
Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 44 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.
