Colorado’s drinks industry is reeling after Eagle Rock Distributing Company announced it’s pulling the plug on all operations in the state, resulting in the loss of over 500 jobs. The move follows a major acquisition by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, signalling a significant shift in the state’s alcohol distribution landscape.
Eagle Rock, a long-standing family-owned business with roots in both Georgia and Colorado, has been a key player in the beverage supply chain for decades. The company has acted as a crucial link between drinks producers, including craft brewers, and local retailers across the state. From delivering well-known brands like Budweiser and Stella Artois to stocking local bars and shops with craft beers, Eagle Rock’s presence has been ubiquitous.
However, all that is set to change. A Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) filed on April 3rd confirmed that the company will cease all Colorado operations by June 5, 2026. This asset sale will lead to the permanent layoff of 514 employees, effectively wiping out the entire Eagle Rock workforce in Colorado.
The closure of Eagle Rock’s six distribution centres across Colorado has the potential to reshape how alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are distributed throughout the state. The impact will be felt across a wide range of job roles, including delivery drivers (CDL), warehouse staff, account managers, sales teams, logistics personnel, and administrative support.
The sites scheduled for closure are:
| Location |
|---|
| Adams County |
| Colorado Springs |
| Denver |
| Grand Junction |
| Greeley |
| Pueblo |
Alcohol distributors play a crucial role in the U.S. beverage industry. The country’s three-tier system prohibits producers like breweries and wineries from selling directly to retailers. Instead, they rely on wholesale distributors to transport their products from manufacturing sites to stores, bars, restaurants, stadiums and hotels. The exit of Eagle Rock will undoubtedly create a void in this crucial supply chain.
