Bear Republic Partners With Craft Central for NC Distribution

Greensboro, NC—November 17, 2015—Following a brief hiatus in central and western North Carolina markets, Bear Republic Brewing Co. is making a welcome return through Craft Central, a craft-dedicated beer distributor. The California drought forced Bear Republic to decrease production and pull out of several markets last year, but as availability of water has increased, Bear Republic is growing back into their former footprint. Craft Central will pick up distribution of Bear Republic, bringing their brands to the major cities of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Charlotte and Asheville and the surrounding regions.

“The absence of Bear Republic from our markets left a hole in the region’s craft beer scene. The only way to fill that hole was to bring them back. We’re fortunate to work with Bear Republic in the return of their brands to loyal fans in North Carolina and look forward to a promising future as partners in craft,” said Chris Caffey, President and CEO of Craft Central.

Bear Republic was established in 1995 in the heart of California’s world-famous wine country. In 2015, they were recognized by the Brewers Association as the 39th largest craft brewery in the United States. Bear Republic has received 22 Great American Beer Festival® medals, among various other awards, all the while remaining family-owned, Sonoma County-based and wholly dedicated to brewing fresh, never filtered hand-crafted beer. Racer 5 IPA, Grand Am American Pale Ale and Tartare, their limited edition interpretation of the Berliner Weisse style, will be offered on draft throughout the central and western North Carolina markets beginning this month. In December, Big Bear Black Stout and Hop Shovel IPA will be added to draft offerings and Racer 5 IPA and Big Bear Black Stout will be available in bottles.

“We’re excited to be working with Craft Central,” said Richard R. Norgrove, CEO of Bear Republic Brewing Company. “And we look forward to bringing Bear Republic beers back to the people of North Carolina.”