A merger was announced today between Republic Beverage and National Distributing Company. The two giant beer distrubtors will be merging to create what I believe will be the second largest beer distributor nationwide. Republic Beverage distributes in Alabama, Arizona, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. National Distributing currently distributes in Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington D.C. Together, one company will reach nineteen states plus the District of Columbia. Is that good for the industry? I don’t know, but my gut tells me it’s probably not going to help small breweries.

From the press release:

Tom Cole, chief operating officer of Republic Beverage Company, and Charlie Andrews, chief operating officer of National Distributing Company (NDC), jointly announced today an agreement in principle for a merger of their respective companies. The combined organization will have approximately $4 billion in sales, covering over 20 states including the District of Columbia.

Tom Cole stated that the two organizations are a natural fit due to their shared supplier alignments, complementary geographic territories, and a shared strategic vision. Charlie Andrews added that, as it approaches a true national organization, the company can more effectively serve the needs of suppliers and retailers alike. He also noted that the companies are aligned with a common vision of building premium branded wines and spirits through best in class practices. Tom and Charlie will jointly lead the integration and transition process.