Brown-Forman has confirmed a major shift in its US distribution network, appointing new partners across multiple state-controlled markets as part of a wider restructuring of its route to market.
The Louisville-based company said the changes cover 18 US control states, where alcohol distribution is managed or overseen by state authorities. Four distributor groups will now represent its portfolio in 11 of those markets, with the remaining seven states continuing under existing agreements.
The new structure takes effect from June 1.
Johnson Brothers will handle distribution in Idaho, Montana, North Carolina, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming.
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits takes over Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
Superior Beverage Group will manage Ohio, while Great Lakes Wine & Spirits will oversee Michigan.
The company also confirmed the end of its partnership with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) in these markets.
Brown-Forman said the move follows a full review of its distribution strategy and is part of the largest transformation of its US network in more than 60 years.
Control states require a different operating model compared with open markets, combining regulatory compliance with strong execution at store level. The company said the selected distributors bring the scale and capabilities needed to support long-term growth.
The update sits within a broader shift across the US beverage sector, where suppliers are tightening control over distribution to improve execution, visibility and brand positioning in complex regulatory environments.
For suppliers and retail partners, distributor alignment remains a key lever in how products reach shelves, particularly in markets where state systems influence pricing, availability and logistics.
What happens next
The new distributor structure will roll out from June, with performance in these markets likely to be closely watched across the us fmcg sector.
Further adjustments are possible as major beverage groups continue to optimise distribution networks to match regulatory requirements and evolving retail demand.
