In this month’s distribution news, Ego Tequila makes moves in Texas, NEFT Vodka’s mini barrels roll into BevMo!, and several ready-to-drink (RTD) brands land big California accounts.
Ego Tequila Makes Moves In Texas
Additive-free tequila brand Ego Tequila has made several major moves this year to expand its reach, strengthen its operations and set the stage for long-term brand development. On the distribution front, Ego has partnered with Mexcor to support expansion in Texas and beyond.
“Mexcor’s ability to scale emerging premium brands – and their deep relationships in independent and national retail – make them an ideal strategic fit,” said founder Rikki Kelly.
Starting later this summer, Ego Tequila will be available in Total Wine & More stores across Texas, doubling its current retail footprint in the state. The expansion comes as Ego lands a new distillery partnership, has teamed up with a new creative agency, and plans for a redesigned bottle and refined visual identity to debut later this year.
NEFT 100ml Rolls Into California
NEFT Vodka, crafted in Austria with distinctive barrel packaging, has landed on shelves at BevMo! stores and via delivery through Gopuff in California. The brand arrives in 100ml shatterproof mini barrels that stay chilled for hours.
“California has always been at the forefront of trends in taste, sustainability, and design. Having NEFT available at the state’s leading beverage retailer is a win not just for us, but for consumers seeking something that delivers on both flavor and function, perfectly sized for picnics, wedding favors, or a stylish bar cart setup,” said Justin Burnett, chief sales officer at NEFT.
The rollout is part of a broader international growth strategy that has already seen NEFT stocked in 20 countries worldwide.
LALO, Branca USA, Patco and More Find New Homes
Spirits and RTD suppliers are scattering to new distributors as Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) winds down operations in the Golden State. Here’s the recap:
- Branca USA, LALO Spirits and Hendrick’s Gin owner William Grant & Sons (WG&S) have announced distribution partnerships with Reyes Beverage Group.
- Rancho La Gloria producer, Patco Brands, is headed to California Beverage Solution. The family-owned company founded in 2012 with a small tequila business has grown into one of the largest producers of agave wine RTDs.
De Nada Tequila Signs With Luxury Spirits International
Tequila brand De Nada has partnered with importer Luxury Spirits International, joining brands such as Flor de Caña Rum and Los Javis Mezcal in the portfolio. De Nada will expand its presence in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, California and Texas this year, with future markets to follow.
Dunamis Premium Spirits Hits Georgia
Dunamis Premium Spirits, a producer of bourbon, rum, gin,and vodka, has teamed up with RNDC, expanding its distribution to include Georgia, in addition to existing markets in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Illinois, Indiana and Iowa. Georgia is one of the brand’s top five target markets based on its “dense population, diversity and desire for premium brands,” said founder Victor Young. The company’s portfolio has been approved in Total Wine & More locations in 11 states to include Georgia, and will be stocking Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse nationally.
RTD News:
- West Peak Sparkling Spirits’ Sparkling Tequila Paloma and Sparkling Whiskey Smash have hit Northern California World Market stores.
- Carbliss expands again into Houston, Texas and Tennessee. Last month, the fast-growing RTD company announced it was moving into Kentucky.
- LIXIR, the first regenerative organic honey-based spritz, is now rolling out in 48 Whole Foods Markets across Southern California.