Founders Brewing will expand its distribution footprint in the Midwest this month, tapping two new states and broadening its presence in a third.
The brewery announced this morning that it has partnered with Johnson Brothers Liquor Company, a multi-state beer, wine and spirits wholesaler, for new coverage throughout North Dakota and South Dakota. Founders, which is already partnered with Johnson Brothers in Minnesota, will also expand distribution to western parts of the state, it said in a news release.
Founders’ full line of year-round and seasonal offerings – including All Day IPA and Breakfast Stout – will be available in bottles, kegs and on draft, it said. Limited release offerings could also be made available in the new markets shortly after the launch, the company said.
In a statement, brewery co-founder and CEO Mike Stevens added that additional Midwest expansion is imminent.
“We’re looking forward to getting our beer to all of the Midwestern states with the addition of our new partners Johnson Brothers,” said Stevens. “As we continue the progress on our facility expansion, it’s going to allow us get our beer to even more enthusiasts this year. And we’re starting with some of our neighbors.”
Founders, the nation’s 17th largest craft brewery, sold 193,000 barrels in 2014, up 74 percent over the year prior. The company is also currently in the midst of a massive $35 million expansion that would enable it to eventually brew upwards of 900,000 barrels of beer annually.