Newly formed Zonafide Beverages unites two top Arizona breweries under one roof with plans to brew 30,000 barrels annually
We have another merger! Two pillars of Arizona craft beer — Huss Brewing Co. and PHX Beer Co. — are joining forces. The newly announced merger creates Zonafide Beverages LLC, a new umbrella company that consolidates brewing operations in Tempe, positions the duo as the second-largest craft brewer in the state with nearly 30,000 barrels of annual production.
“For years, we’ve admired PHX Beer Co. as a respected leader in the Arizona craft beer scene,” said Leah Huss, co-founder of Huss Brewing Co. “With shared values, a deep passion for quality, and a commitment to our communities, the timing is finally right to come together.”
But don’t expect any sudden identity shifts. Both brands say they will continue operating under their original names, maintaining their distinct personalities and lineups.
The combined operation will be led on the brewing side by Jeff Huss, co-founder of Huss Brewing and newly appointed Brewmaster of the collective. With more than three decades of combined experience, Jeff and Leah are long-standing fixtures in Arizona’s beer evolution — from Jeff’s training at Siebel and Doemens, to Leah’s foundational role in Papago Brewing.
Meanwhile, PHX Beer Co. brings its own decorated reputation for innovative brews, sustainable practices, and support of the local community.
A merger with momentum
This merger between Huss and PHX continues the more recent “combine and conquer” trend we’ve seen in the market: Like-minded, indie beverage brands combining forces for better economies of scale, but not keeping their separate, core identities intact.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm by Crescent Crown Distributing, the statewide distribution partner for both breweries.
“These two companies have been excellent partners of ours for years,” said Ian Yonushonis, EVP and General Manager at Crescent Crown. “To see them come together in what will be a stronger and more efficient organization is exciting to say the least.”
Steve Robbins, president and CEO of Zonafide Beverages, sees the merger as a launchpad: “We’re not just expanding, we’re laying the foundation for a thriving, sustainable future rooted in community, driven by innovation, and inspired by the spirit of craft.”
As consolidation in the craft beer industry accelerates, the merger of these two brands stands out not just for scale, but for intent: maintaining independence, supporting Arizona beer, and keeping the fermenters full with local flavor.
