How to Get Help with Liquor Distribution By Samuel Anderson | May 10, 2025

The Three-Tier System separates producers, distributors, and retailers.

Breaking into liquor distribution can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a distillery, brewery, or winery, understanding how to work within the U.S. alcohol system—and with the right people—is key to your success.

🧭 What Is the Three-Tier System?

• Producers (you!) make the product.
• Distributors buy from producers and sell to…
• Retailers, who sell to consumers.

This post-Prohibition structure helps with compliance, taxes, and market access—but it also means you can’t go straight to stores in most states.

👉 Some states do allow self-distribution or hybrid options—check your local laws.

📈 Build a Smart Distribution Strategy

Before reaching out to a distributor, get clear on:

• Your long-term brand vision
• Target markets and accounts
• Your production capacity
• The distribution model that fits best (traditional, self, hybrid, DTC)

🤝 How to Choose the Right Distributor

Ask every potential partner these:

• What markets do you cover?
• Who are your top-performing suppliers, and why?
• How do you train and incentivize your sales team?
• What tech or reporting tools do you use?
• How do you support new brands in the market?

💻 Don’t Ignore Modern Trends

E-commerce and DTC are shaking up traditional models.

Today’s beverage landscape includes:

• E-commerce & DTC shipping (where legal)
• Subscription models
• Local/craft demand from consumers
• Tech platforms like Ekos for managing your relationships

✅ Need Hands-On Help?

Want to talk strategy or get intros? 📅 Book a 1-on-1 Call

📖 Or explore the full article here: 👉 Read the Full Distribution Guide