Best Gallon Beer Wholesale Options For Your Next Party

If you're looking to buy wholesale beer by the gallon, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can search online for beer distributors or wholesalers who can offer a wide range of craft beers from local and national breweries. Alternatively, you can contact breweries directly and inquire about their wholesale options, although this may require contacting multiple companies to stock different types of beer. Online wholesale marketplaces, such as BlueCart, can also be a great way to find a variety of distributors and compare prices. Additionally, local craft beer guilds can provide contacts for reliable breweries and wholesalers in your area. When purchasing wholesale beer, it's important to consider the minimum order requirements, storage space, and shelf life of the product.

Beer Distributors

For those looking to buy wholesale gallons of beer, it is important to consider the size of your company and the beer products you either make or sell. If you are just starting, a smaller, local beer distributor might be the best option. However, bigger brands will need a distributor that can satisfy their requirements on a larger scale.

Anheuser-Busch (Nationwide)

Anheuser-Busch is one of the most famous beer distributors in the country, with popular brands like Budweiser, Goose Island, and Stella Artois. They have countless resources and also distribute small-batch beers from craft breweries.

Reyes Beverage Group (Nationwide)

Reyes Beverage Group is the largest beer distributor in America, delivering over 290 million cases of beer to more than 100,000 retailers annually. They distribute brands like Modelo, Corona, and Coors and have 44 distribution hubs across the country.

Columbia Distributing (Pacific Northwest)

Columbia Distributing was founded in the 1930s and now distributes products throughout Oregon and Washington. They partner with both large breweries and craft breweries of all sizes.

Manhattan Beer Distributors (New York Metro Area)

Manhattan Beer Distributors is one of the fastest-growing distributors in the US and is a trusted partner for breweries across the country. They serve the New York metropolitan area, including New York City, Long Island, and Hudson Valley.

Crescent Crown Distributing (Arizona and Louisiana)

Crescent Crown Distributing is one of the largest distributors in the USA, selling and delivering over 30 million cases every year. They distribute a range of big-brand beers and smaller local brews.

Ben E. Keith Company (Texas)

The Ben E. Keith Company has been in business since 1906 and is a leader in food and beverage distribution. They serve customers in Texas with a range of premium beverages, including unique brews, craft beers, and imported beers.

Additionally, Sam's Club is a great option for those looking to buy beer in bulk. They offer a variety of domestic, imported, and craft beers at competitive prices, and you can order online or pick up your order at a nearby location.

Online Wholesale Marketplaces

There are several online wholesale marketplaces where you can buy wholesale beer by the gallon. Here are some options:

• BlueCart: BlueCart is an online platform that helps businesses find wholesale beer suppliers. It offers a convenient way to compare prices and products from various distributors. You can find a wide range of beer options, including craft beers, domestic, and imported varieties.
• Sam's Club: Sam's Club offers bulk beer cases and pallets for sale online. They provide a wide selection of beer brands, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller. You can also find a range of imported and craft beers. Sam's Club allows you to order online and pick up your purchase at a nearby location.
• Total Wine: Total Wine offers a wide range of beer options available for purchase online. They have a variety of beer styles, such as IPAs, American Amber/Red Lager, and specialty styles. You can find both canned and bottled beer, as well as hard seltzers from popular brands.
• BottleStore: While BottleStore doesn't sell beer, they offer a range of packaging options specifically for craft beer enthusiasts. They provide classic Boston Round glass bottles in 8oz, 16oz, and 32oz sizes, perfect for single-serve craft beers. They also offer growler jugs in gallon and half-gallon sizes, with various cap options. BottleStore provides discounts on bulk orders, making it an ideal choice for those looking for wholesale packaging solutions.

Local Beer Associations

When it comes to buying wholesale beer by the gallon, local beer associations can be a great resource. These organisations support and promote independent craft brewers, providing a unified voice for small brewers and offering a range of benefits to their members. Here are some examples of local beer associations and their advantages:

• Brewers Association (BA): The Brewers Association is a national organisation representing small and independent craft brewers in America. With a membership comprising over 70% of the brewing industry, the BA offers resources and support to those looking to start their own small brewery. They provide educational tools, such as the "Guide to Start Your Own Brewery", and host conferences and events to promote the diversity and flavour of craft beer. The BA also offers the Independent Craft Brewer Seal, which helps consumers identify beer produced by independent craft brewers.
• National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA): The NBWA is dedicated to enhancing the independent beer distribution industry in America. They advocate for their members, promote responsible alcohol consumption, and provide educational programs and valuable industry connections. The NBWA Annual Convention, for example, introduces distributors to new products, technologies, and vendors. They also hold events like the Legislative Conference and the BREW Leadership Forum, which empower women in the beer and beverage distribution industry.
• Regional Wholesalers: In addition to national associations, there are regional wholesalers and distributors that operate within specific states or regions. For instance, the General Wholesale Company serves as a beer, wine, and spirits wholesaler in Georgia, Spartanburg (South Carolina), and Florida. They distribute a diverse range of brands and have a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
• State and Local Associations: Many states and local communities have their own beer associations that cater to the specific needs and interests of brewers and distributors in their area. These organisations often work closely with government officials and regulators to ensure the sustainable growth of the beer industry in their region. They may also provide local networking opportunities, events, and resources for brewers and beer enthusiasts.

By engaging with these local beer associations, individuals or businesses looking to buy wholesale beer by the gallon can gain access to a wealth of knowledge, industry connections, and potential suppliers. These associations promote the craft beer culture, support independent brewers, and provide educational resources that can enhance the beer-buying experience and foster a strong, sustainable beer industry.

Retailers vs Distributors

When it comes to purchasing wholesale beer by the gallon, understanding the roles of retailers and distributors is crucial. Both are integral parts of the supply chain, facilitating the movement of beer from the manufacturer to the consumer. While they share similarities, there are also significant differences between the two.

Distributors:

Distributors are the link between manufacturers and retailers or wholesalers. They represent the manufacturer's interests and work closely with them to promote and sell their products. Distributors have a direct relationship with manufacturers, often through exclusive buying agreements and contracts, which may restrict them from trading competing products. Distributors buy large quantities of products from manufacturers and store them, alleviating storage burdens. They also assist with sales and promotional activities, leveraging their existing retail relationships. Distributors typically earn revenue through a percentage of net sales or a fixed amount per unit sold.

Retailers:

Retailers are the final link in the distribution process, selling products directly to consumers. They purchase small quantities of items from distributors or wholesalers. Retailers consist of small and large for-profit businesses, including physical stores and e-commerce platforms. They focus on meeting consumer needs and building relationships with their target audience. Retailers do not typically enter into contractual agreements with manufacturers, allowing them to sell competing products.

For example, when you buy beer from a store like Sam's Club, you are interacting with a retailer. Sam's Club purchases beer from distributors or wholesalers and then sells it to consumers like you.

Wholesalers:

Wholesalers play a crucial role in the supply chain by purchasing large quantities of products directly from distributors or, sometimes, manufacturers. They then sell these products in smaller packages to retailers. Wholesalers have more control over their revenue, deciding which products to purchase, from whom, and at what price to sell them to retailers. They often specialize in a particular industry, such as food or beverages, and serve both physical and online retailers.

In summary, distributors work closely with manufacturers to promote and sell their products, while wholesalers facilitate the distribution of these products to retailers. Retailers are the final link, selling directly to consumers. Each plays a unique and essential role in ensuring that beer reaches consumers, with distributors and wholesalers providing the critical function of purchasing in bulk and distributing to retailers.

Wholesale Beer Prices

The price of wholesale beer depends on the type of beer, the quantity purchased, and the location.

Craft beers are more expensive than domestic beers due to their specialty nature. A 12-pack of craft beer can cost around $20 to $30, while a wholesale case may range from $10 to $20. In contrast, a 12-pack of domestic beer typically falls in the range of $12 to $15, and a wholesale case can cost around half the price per case, depending on the purchased quantity.

The cost of a 15.5-gallon keg of domestic beer is approximately $200 on average, which includes a $30 keg deposit and taxes. This equates to about $13 per gallon, making it a more economical option than buying individual cans or bottles.

The average cost of a case of beer in the United States is around $21, but prices vary significantly by state. For example, states like Rhode Island and New Mexico have lower prices, with cases costing approximately $15, while Alaska has higher prices, with cases reaching up to $31.

Where to Buy Wholesale Beer

When purchasing wholesale beer, it's essential to consider the source. General Wholesale Company, for instance, is a prominent wholesaler in the southeast United States, offering a diverse range of brands. Alternatively, Sam's Club® provides competitive prices on wholesale beer, allowing you to buy in bulk and pick up your order from their locations.

Frequently asked questions