Buying Beer In Bulk: Is It Possible?

Buying beer in bulk is a great option for those who are planning big parties or weddings, or who simply want to keep their home stocked with their favourite beverage. There are many stores that offer bulk beer, including Sam's Club, Costco, and local distributors. When buying in bulk, it's important to consider the type of beer, the quantity needed, and the storage conditions to ensure the beer stays fresh. Some stores also offer delivery and pick-up services, making it convenient for customers to get their beer without having to worry about transportation.

Where to buy bulk beer

There are several options for buying beer in bulk, both in-store and online. Here are some places to consider:

Sam's Club

Sam's Club offers a wide variety of beer in bulk, including domestic, imported, and craft beers. You can find popular domestic beers such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller Genuine Draft, as well as imported and craft beers like Amsel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Pilsner Urquell. Sam's Club also provides the convenience of ordering online and picking up your order at a nearby location.

Costco

Costco is another great option for buying beer in bulk. They often have popular beers like Sam Adams, and you may be able to purchase alcohol without a membership in certain states or locations. Costco also carries local craft beers, providing a good selection to choose from.

Total Wine

Total Wine is a specialist in wine and liquor selection, and they can help you figure out the right quantities for your needs. They also accept returns of unopened bottles without any fuss. Total Wine offers the convenience of ordering through their app and providing efficient packaging for your purchases.

Local Distributors

Depending on your location, there may be local beer distributors that offer bulk purchases. For example, in New York, there are places like TriBoro Beverage in Astoria, Queens, Beer Garden in Kew Gardens, and Flair Beverages in Inwood. These local distributors often have a wide selection of beers at competitive prices.

Online Options

If you prefer online shopping, there are websites like Fort Point Beer Company that offer free overnight shipping for orders above a certain amount. They can cater to events and weddings in the Bay Area, providing a convenient option for those in that region.

Bulk beer for weddings

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding on the drinks. Buying beer in bulk for a wedding is a great way to save money and ensure that your guests have plenty to drink. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

How Much Beer to Buy

It is important to have a plan before buying beer in bulk for your wedding. Start by assessing your guest list and considering how many attendees are likely to drink beer. Take into account the demographic of your guests, as well as the date and time of your wedding. For example, people may drink less at a Sunday afternoon wedding than on a Saturday night.

Digital drink calculators, such as the one offered by Total Wine & More, can be incredibly helpful in determining how much beer you need. For instance, for a 100-person wedding reception lasting three to four hours, they suggest 150 bottles of beer. When the duration increases to more than four hours, they recommend 180 bottles of beer.

Types of Beer to Buy

It is a good idea to offer a variety of beers to cater to different tastes. Opt for a few light and drinkable options such as Corona and Modelo, and supplement these with other types of beer that you and your guests enjoy. If you and your partner are fans of IPAs, include a local brew on the menu. You can also add your dad's favourite import beer for him and others with similar tastes.

Where to Buy Beer in Bulk

There are several options for purchasing beer in bulk for your wedding:

• Club Stores: BJs, Costco, and Sam's Club are great options for buying beer in bulk. They offer a wide range of beer brands and often provide discounts for large orders.
• Local Liquor Stores: Local liquor stores can offer guidance on popular drinks and may provide bulk rates. They may also offer delivery and pick-up services, which can be convenient for your big day.
• Specialty Stores: Depending on your location, there may be specialty stores that offer wholesale beer at competitive prices. For example, in New York, stores like Brooklyn Beer & Soda, Ram Wholesale Beer Soda & Malta, and Gun Hill Beer Distributors are recommended for buying beer in bulk.
• Online Delivery Services: Online liquor delivery apps like Drizly offer a "White Glove Wedding Service" that helps with selecting, ordering, and delivering the right amount of alcohol for your wedding. They also assist with returning any unused products.

When to Buy Beer in Bulk

It is advisable to wait until you have your final guest count before purchasing beer in bulk for your wedding. Ideally, place your order or pick up the beer at least three weeks before the wedding. This will ensure that you have an accurate idea of how much beer you need and give you enough time to arrange for delivery or pick-up.

What to Do With Excess Beer

When buying beer in bulk, it is always better to have too much than too little. Most liquor retailers will allow you to return unopened or unchilled bottles of beer. However, be sure to check the return policy of the store before making your purchase. If returns are not accepted, you can always enjoy the leftover beer at home or give it as gifts.

Bulk beer for parties

Planning a party where beer will be served? Buying in bulk can be a convenient and cost-effective option. Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing bulk beer for your party:

Understanding Bulk Purchasing

Firstly, let's understand what bulk purchasing means. Buying beer in bulk generally refers to purchasing a large quantity of beer at a discounted price. The quantity required to qualify as bulk may vary depending on the retailer or distributor. Some sellers may offer bulk discounts on purchases of 24-30 packs of beer.

Benefits of Buying Beer in Bulk

There are several advantages to buying beer in bulk for your party:

• Cost savings: Buying in bulk can result in significant discounts compared to purchasing individual bottles or cans.
• Convenience: With a large supply of beer on hand, you won't need to make multiple trips to restock. You can also opt for delivery services offered by some retailers.
• Variety: Buying in bulk allows you to offer a variety of beer types at your party, catering to different tastes.

Where to Buy Beer in Bulk

There are several options for purchasing beer in bulk:

• Beverage distributors: These offer a wide selection of beer brands and often provide delivery services. However, they may require a minimum order quantity and might not have the most competitive pricing.
• Online retailers: Online stores offer a vast selection of beer brands, often at competitive prices, and deliver to your doorstep. But be prepared for shipping costs and possible delays in delivery.
• Warehouse clubs: Places like Costco and Sam's Club offer a wide selection of beer brands, often at competitive prices, and typically don't require a membership for alcohol purchases.
• Breweries: Buying directly from a brewery can get you a discount and allows you to support local businesses. However, not all breweries offer bulk options, and you may need to factor in transportation costs.

Tips for Buying Beer in Bulk

To ensure you get the best deal and avoid any issues:

• Check for discounts: Many retailers offer promotions for larger quantity purchases, so do your research.
• Compare prices: Don't settle for convenience; compare prices between retailers, distributors, and online stores to find the most cost-effective option.
• Consider storage: Ensure you have enough space to store the beer properly and that it will be consumed before it expires.
• Check expiration dates: Always check the expiration dates before purchasing to avoid ending up with expired beer.
• Plan ahead: Consider how much beer you'll need for your party to avoid buying too little or having a lot of waste.

Now that you're equipped with this knowledge, you can start planning your party and stocking up on beer!

Bulk beer storage

If you're buying beer in bulk, you'll need to know how to store it. Here are some tips for bulk beer storage:

Location

Keep beer stored in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. A basement or cellar is ideal. Unrefrigerated storage works well for stronger beers with higher alcohol content. If you have the space, a dedicated beer cooler or mini-fridge is a great option to keep your beer at the perfect temperature.

Containers

There are various containers you can use to store your beer. If you're storing bottles, a crate is a good option, especially one with dividers to prevent the bottles from clinking and potentially breaking. You can also use a bottle drying and storage rack, which is a great space-saving option as you can dry and store your bottles in the same place. If you're storing beer in cans, a stackable can dispenser is a good option to maximise space and keep your cans organised.

Temperature

Lighter beers need to be stored at cooler temperatures than stronger beers. If you're using a cooler or fridge, the ideal temperature range is between 40-61 degrees Fahrenheit.

Other considerations

If you're storing beer in a fridge or cooler, avoid placing it in direct sunlight or anywhere that gets very warm or very cold, as this can affect the taste and quality of the beer. Keep your beer away from strong smells, as beer can absorb nearby odours.

Bulk beer delivery

There are many options available for bulk beer delivery, whether you're stocking up for a party or just want to keep the fridge fully loaded.

Sam's Club

Sam's Club offers a wide range of beer options, including domestic, imported, and craft beers. You can find popular brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller, as well as imported beers like Amsel Light and Newcastle Brown Ale. They also offer a convenient pickup option, allowing you to order online and collect your order from your nearest club location.

Beavertown Brewery

If you're in the UK, Beavertown Brewery provides a great option for bulk beer delivery. They offer a variety of their beers in bulk, including Bones Lager, Gamma Ray, and Neck Oil. The minimum order is 10 cases, and you can save up to 8% on your order depending on the quantity. They also provide free delivery for orders over £60.

BeerHunter

BeerHunter offers a vast selection of beer multipacks from independent breweries across the globe. You can find unique craft beers, IPAs, Pale Ales, and Lagers from breweries like Brewdog, Augustiner Helles, Lowenbrau, and Beavertown. They aim to bring you the finest beers from microbreweries and specialist brewers worldwide.

Local Distributors

Depending on your location, there may be local beer distributors that offer bulk beer delivery. For example, in New York, there are places like TriBoro Beverage, Flair Beverage, and Brooklyn Beer & Soda that provide wholesale beer options. Similarly, in Queens, places like Best Market and Beer Garden have been recommended for their bulk beer packages.

Online Retailers

Online retailers like DrinkSupermarket also provide options for bulk beer delivery. With a wide range of lager, pilsner, and beer options from brands like Peroni, Deperados, Brewdog, and Grolsch, you can stock up for your next event or simply enjoy a variety of beers at home.

Frequently asked questions