Consolidation among US beer distributors continues

USA | The beer distribution model has changed dramatically over the past few decades, says the Beverage Marketing Corporation, New York. With the focus on scale and efficiencies, consolidation among distributors has given rise to mega-distributors, such as the privately-owned Reyes Beer Division, a part of Reyes Holding (estimated turnover of USD 29 billion), and Columbia Distributing, headquartered in Portland, Oregon.

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Boston Beer agrees to new beer distribution laws in Massachusetts

USA | Although Boston Beer is the looser, it still agreed to revised beer distribution laws in its home state of Massachusetts, which will allow small craft brewers to now choose their own distributor.

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Expanding network of distribution partners for pumps

Pumpenfabrik Wangen | Powerful in UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand: Wangen Pumpen further expands its network of international distribution partners.

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Diageo fined USD 5 million for “misleading investors”

USA | Diageo has agreed to pay a USD 5 million fine to settle with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which had charged the world’s number one drinks company of pressuring distributors to buy excess inventory to boost its results in a flagging market.

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Building a sustainable model for import beers in the United States

USA | Shipping beer and glass over long distances scores poorly on sustainability. Rabobank analyst Francois Sonneville favours a hybrid model, inspired by the wine industry, whereby beer is produced in the country of origin, shipped in bulk, and bottled in the market.