Distribution Roundup: Banko Celebrates 80 Years; Mutual Adds to its Portfolio

Beer drinkers everywhere raised a glass last week, toasting to 80 years since the repeal of Prohibition. The 21st Amendment no doubt holds a place in the hearts of every beer drinker, but for Banko Beverage of Allentown, PA, 1933 also means it has eight decades of business in the Keystone State under its belt.

Coinciding with Banko’s milestone birthday, the company will soon be leaving its headquarters on Hanover Avenue where it has operated since the 1960s for a bigger facility.

According to Lehigh Valley Business, the new digs “will take Banko from 80,000 square feet to 125,000 square feet,” with 30 additional acres for further expansion should it be necessary.

The article adds that Banko is investing about $7 million in its new home. Company vice president and general manager Tom Lynch said the move is expected to take place in March.

In addition to distributing MillerCoors, Heineken and AB In-Bev products, Banko’s suppliers include D.G. Yuengling, F.X. Matt Brewing Co., Anchor Brewing Co. and more.

While some businesses tack on the years, others tack on markets. Such is the case for Left Coast Brewing Co., which, per an agreement with Mutual Distributing, is bringing its beers to the right coast.

The San Clemente, CA-based brewery is set to bring its lineup of five full time beers, including flagship Hop Juice Double IPA, and four seasonal offerings to North Carolina through Mutual.

“We are thrilled to be in North Carolina. It has been a goal of ours for over 2 years,” Tommy Hadjis, General Manager of Left Coast, said in a press release.

“Left Coast is tremendous brewery,” added William Riley, vice president of sales at Mutual, “we look forward to introducing their brand to consumers throughout the state of North Carolina.”

Mutual also added Double Barley Brewing to its portfolio. Founded in 2013, Double Barley, based in Smithfield, NC, offers a variety of seasonal and limited release small batch beers throughout the year alongside its flagships.

“Double Barley is an exciting young brewery, and we look forward growing their brand together and sharing their beer with consumers throughout the state of North Carolina,” said Riley in a release.

Windsor, CO’s own High Hops Brewery will be moving from the tap to the shelves as its five flagship beers are now available in 22-ounce bottles in Fort Collins area liquor stores.

Brewery co-owner Zach Weakland told the Windsor Beacon that the brewery has signed with American Eagle Distributing, to also focus on expanding across Northern Colorado.

“For now, we’re really going to focus locally, in Windsor and Fort Collins,’ Weakland told the Beacon. “Once we get the kinks worked out, we’ll expand and also get into the barrel-aged series and seasonal beers.”