Distribution shakeup continues in California.
After moving top-selling ready-to-drink (RTD) High Noon Sun Sips over from Republic National Distributing (RNDC) to Reyes Beverage in April, Gallo is making the same move with its spirits portfolio and select wines.
The deal, effective September 3, marks Reyes’ first entry into the wine category, and an even deeper push into spirits.
The latest move comes as RNDC winds down distribution operations, and major players scatter to new wholesale homes. RNDC’s exit is expected to eliminate 1,756 jobs, with the withdrawal scheduled for September 1.
Gallo is the fourth-largest bev-alc supplier in California and has some of the top-selling spirits and wine brands in the Golden State, including the No. 1 sparking wine brand La Marca; the No. 2 still wine brand, Barefoot; and the No. 3 vodka brand, New Amsterdam, according to the release.
Before April’s move, Reyes already carried several of Gallo’s malt and RTD brands, including Montucky Cold Snacks, Beach Juice, Salt Point and Pink Whitney’s malt-based offerings.
“What we are building together in California is special,” Reyes Beverage Group, West president Tom Reyes said in a press release. “We are investing for long-term growth and success with great
partners like Gallo as we deliver on our company’s purpose to connect customers,
consumers and brands every day everywhere we operate.”
“This transition to Reyes ensures continued support and availability of Gallo’s portfolio
across California,” Gallo VP of distributor management Cub Schuller said in the release. “We greatly respect the Reyes family and the organization they’ve built – one grounded in
integrity, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to serving the trade.”
Read more about what’s been happening in California in the stories below: