Buying Beer In Bulk: Is It Possible?

Buying beer in bulk is a great way to save money, especially for events such as weddings. While it is possible to buy beer in bulk from wholesale clubs, most states prohibit selling alcohol wholesale to non-retailers. However, some wholesale clubs like Costco offer a good selection of beer at wholesale prices, and you may not need a membership to purchase alcohol. Other options for buying beer in bulk include Total Wine, Trader Joe's, BJ's, and local liquor stores, which may offer discounts on bulk purchases. Online options for buying beer in bulk include Winc, Drizly, CraftShack, and Amazon.

Buying Beer in Bulk

Buying beer in bulk online

Benefits of Buying Beer in Bulk

Firstly, buying in bulk can often save you money. Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase larger quantities. For example, Beavertown Brewery offers a sliding discount scale, starting at 3% off when you buy 10 cases, and increasing to 5% for 15 cases, and 8% for 20 or more cases.

Additionally, buying in bulk ensures you always have beer on hand, which is perfect for those who entertain frequently or simply want to avoid frequent trips to the store.

Where to Buy Beer in Bulk Online

There are several online retailers that offer beer in bulk. Here are some options:

• Sam's Club: They offer a wide variety of domestic, imported, and craft beers at competitive prices. You can also find snacks, party essentials, and other beverages to complete your shopping.
• Park Slope Beer Store: This online store offers a range of popular beer brands, including Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Stella Artois, in bulk quantities.
• Total Wine and More: With over 2,300 beer options, including IPAs, American Amber/Red Lager, and Craft Beers, you're sure to find what you're looking for. They also offer hard seltzers and flavoured beverages.
• Beavertown Brewery: Perfect for special occasions or just restocking the office fridge, Beavertown offers a range of craft beers in bulk, including their popular Bones lager, Gamma Ray, and Neck Oil. They also have an alcohol-free option, Lazer Crush.

Things to Consider

When buying beer in bulk online, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Delivery: Consider the delivery options and costs. Some retailers offer free delivery over a certain purchase amount, while others charge a flat rate. Also, check if the retailer can deliver to your location, as some areas may have restrictions.
• Storage: Ensure you have adequate storage space for your beer. A wine and beer cooler is ideal, but if you don't have the space, store your beer away from heat and light, such as in a basement or dark cabinet.
• Freshness: Beer is best enjoyed fresh, so order in advance but not too far ahead. Beavertown Brewery recommends ordering at least a week ahead to ensure freshness.
• Variety: If you're buying for a group, consider offering a variety of beer styles and brands to suit different tastes. Most online retailers will offer a range of options, so you can mix and match to cater to your guests' preferences.

Wholesale clubs for bulk beer

Warehouse club stores like Costco, BJ's, and Sam's Club are great places to buy beer in bulk. These stores offer the opportunity to purchase beer and other beverages at low prices, making them ideal for stocking up for parties or other events.

Costco

At Costco, you can find a wide range of beer, wine, and liquor options. In some states, such as Georgia, you may be able to purchase alcohol from Costco without a membership by entering through a separate entrance for the liquor store. Costco also offers kegs, which can be a great option for large gatherings.

Sam's Club

Sam's Club is another excellent option for buying beer in bulk. They offer a variety of domestic, imported, and craft beers, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller Genuine Draft. Sam's Club also provides seasonal beers, ciders, and other beverages. Additionally, you can find cups, mixers, and non-alcoholic drinks to complete your party supply list.

BJ's

BJ's is another wholesale club that offers good prices on beer and other beverages. You can find a variety of beer options, including domestic, imported, and craft beers, at competitive prices.

Total Wine

Total Wine is a retailer that specializes in wine, beer, and liquor. They offer a wide selection of options and are known for their helpful staff who can assist with choosing the right products and quantities for your needs. Total Wine also accepts returns of unopened bottles, which can be convenient if you overestimate your needs.

When purchasing beer in bulk from wholesale clubs, it's important to consider the storage conditions to ensure the beer stays fresh. Proper storage includes keeping the beer in a cool, dry place, such as a basement or a kitchen cabinet that doesn't get too warm. Additionally, look for stores that offer convenient pick-up or delivery options to save time and make your bulk purchase more manageable.

Buying beer in bulk for a wedding

Where to Buy Beer in Bulk for a Wedding

Start by researching retailers or club stores in your area that sell alcohol in bulk. Stores like Costco, Sam's Club, or BJ's are commonly recommended for bulk alcohol purchases. Some local liquor stores may also offer bulk rates, so it's worth checking with them as well. Don't forget to consider online options as well, such as Total Wine & More, which offers a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits, along with a digital wedding alcohol calculator to help you estimate your needs.

How Much Beer to Buy in Bulk for a Wedding

The amount of beer you'll need will depend on several factors, including the number of guests, their drinking preferences, and the duration of the event. As a general rule, you can estimate that about one-third of wedding guests will prefer beer over other drinks. Fallon Carter of Fallon Carter Events suggests assessing your guest list, considering how many attendees are of legal drinking age and their drinking habits. Total Wine & More's calculator recommends 150 bottles of beer for a 100-person wedding lasting three to four hours, increasing to 180 bottles for a longer event.

When to Buy Beer in Bulk for a Wedding

It's best to wait until you have your final guest count before purchasing alcohol in bulk. Aim to place your order or pick up the beer at least three weeks before the wedding, ensuring it's fresh and giving you enough time to deal with any last-minute adjustments.

What to Do With Excess Beer

Before purchasing, check the return policy of the retailer. Many stores will accept returns of unopened or unchilled bottles, which can be helpful if you end up with excess beer. If returns are not an option, consider choosing beers that you and your partner enjoy, so you can keep the leftovers for future enjoyment.

Other Considerations for Buying Beer in Bulk for a Wedding

• Seasonal Preferences: Consider the season when selecting your beer. Lighter, more refreshing beers may be preferred during warmer months, while darker, heavier beers might be more suitable for winter weddings.
• Variety: Offer a variety of beer styles to cater to different tastes. Include some light, drinkable options like lagers and some craft beer options for enthusiasts.
• Storage and Serving: Ensure you have adequate storage and serving options for the beer. Your venue may have a fridge available, or you may need to hire a portable fridge or ice boxes to keep the beer cold.
• Delivery: If you're ordering a large quantity of beer, confirm the delivery details with the retailer. Some companies may have restrictions on delivering to certain types of locations, such as flats or narrow roads.
• Calculators and Recommendations: Take advantage of online calculators and recommendations to estimate how much beer to buy. Websites like Total Wine & More and Beavertown Brewery offer calculators to help you determine the right quantity for your guest count and event duration.

Returning unopened beer

Some stores, like Bevmo in California, will not accept unopened bottles. It is best to check the laws in your state and call individual distributors and liquor stores to understand their policies.

Buying beer in bulk from a distributor

If you're looking to buy beer in bulk from a distributor, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it's important to understand that buying in bulk can be more cost-effective than purchasing individual bottles or cans from a retail store. This is because distributors offer wholesale prices, which are significantly lower than retail prices.

Finding a Distributor

When it comes to finding a beer distributor, you have a few options. You can search for local distributors in your area or reach out to other businesses, such as pubs or bars, to inquire about their suppliers. Online platforms like Provi can also help you connect with multiple distributors in one place, making it convenient to compare prices and products.

Choosing the Right Distributor

When selecting a beer distributor, consider the following factors:

• Products offered: Look for a distributor that offers a wide range of beer options, including domestic, imported, and craft beers, to cater to diverse customer preferences.
• Price: Compare prices between distributors, as they may vary. Some distributors may offer different pricing levels or discounts for bulk purchases.
• Delivery options: Ensure that the distributor can provide fast and reliable delivery to your location.
• Technological integration: Modern distributors often incorporate technology and software solutions to streamline the ordering and payment processes, so consider this when making your decision.

Bulk Purchasing Considerations

When buying beer in bulk, keep the following in mind:

• Storage: Beer should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct heat and light. Consider investing in a wine and beer cooler to maintain optimal temperatures.
• Variety: Offer a variety of beer types, including bottles, cans, and different brands, to cater to diverse customer tastes.
• Licensing: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a liquor license to purchase and sell beer. Check your local regulations to ensure compliance.
• Cost and pricing: Understand the cost structure of the distributor, including any additional fees or charges. This will help you set competitive prices for your customers while maintaining profitability.

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to successfully buying beer in bulk from a distributor, ensuring a steady supply of everyone's favourite beverage!

Frequently asked questions