Armada, MI — January 6, 2026 — Blake's Beverage Company, makers of Blake's Hard Cider, Austin Eastciders, and AVID Cider, is proud to announce a new strategic distribution partnership with Ben E. Keith Beverages, one of the largest and most respected beverage distributors in the country. This partnership represents an exciting milestone for Blake's Beverage Company as it significantly expands the availability, reach, and impact of its growing portfolio across the state of Texas.
Beginning January 2026, Ben E. Keith will distribute Blake's Beverage Company's full lineup—bringing fan-favorite brands like Blake's Hard Cider and Austin Eastciders, as well as the innovative Giddy Up product platform, to retailers and consumers throughout the region.
"We couldn't be more energized about this partnership," said Andrew Blake, CEO of Blake's Beverage Company. "Ben E. Keith has built an incredible reputation through strong retail relationships, operational excellence, and a deep understanding of the Texas market. Their team knows the consumer and the landscape extremely well, and we're looking forward to working together to grow all our brands in one of the most dynamic beverage markets in the country."
Blake's Beverage Company extends its gratitude to Kevin Nettleton, and the entire Ben E. Keith team for their leadership, collaboration, and support throughout the onboarding process.
"Bringing the Austin Eastciders brands into our portfolio to complement the Blake's brands already in our portfolio, is a natural fit and we are committed to supporting their growth," said Philip Ward, Vice President of Sales & Branch Management. "Their brands have a proven track record of success and a loyal consumer base. We look forward to growing together and delivering exceptional products to our market."
With this partnership, Blake's Beverage Company strengthens its distribution footprint and reinforces its commitment to providing innovative, flavorful beverages tailored to regional consumer tastes. Retailers and fans in Texas can expect expanded availability, increased local marketing activation, and a pipeline of new product offerings throughout 2026 and beyond.
About Blake's Beverage Company
Blake's Beverage Company is a leading craft beverage producer with a family of brands committed to quality, innovation, and authentic fruit-forward flavor. With roots on a 1,000-acre orchard in Armada, Michigan, Blake's Beverage Company now includes Blake's Hard Cider, Austin Eastciders, and AVID Cider Co. As the company continues to expand its national footprint, Blake's Beverage Company remains grounded in its farm-crafted origins—bringing bold, fruit-forward beverages to consumers across the country.
About Ben E. Keith Beverages
Ben E. Keith Company, established in 1906, began selling Anheuser-Busch products in 1928. Today, Ben E. Keith Company's Beverage division is the seventh largest independent beer wholesaler in the country. With fourteen Sales & Distribution Centers, the company operates throughout the state of Texas and distributes import beers, craft beers, seltzers, spirits, wine products, and nonalcoholic beverages. We are dedicated to the growth and success of our customers, our industry, our partners, and our employees—continuing our commitment to delivering quality since 1906.
Media Contact:
Rachel Bernstein
Senior Director of Commercialization
Blake's Beverage Company
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