A major liquor distributor is closing operations, laying off more than 500 workers
A major shakeup in Colorado’s liquor distribution industry will leave more than 500 workers out of a job, after a major beer and liquor distributor announced the closing of all operations in the state.
For decades, Eagle Rock Distributing Company was the engine behind Colorado’s social scene, bringing beers, wines, and spirits to local merchants.
But it follows a major acquisition by an industry executive Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spiritsthe Eagle Rock of Colorado business will cease permanently.
In a Workforce Adjustment and Retraining Notice (WARN) filed on April 3, the company confirmed it will close all Colorado operations. effective June 5, 2026.
The move, defined as the sale of property, will result in the permanent suspension of 514 employees, that is, all employees of Eagle Rock in Colorado.
The move marks a major change in Colorado’s liquor distribution landscape and highlights the rapid consolidation occurring throughout the beverage supply chain.
A family-owned business with roots in Georgia and Colorado, Eagle Rock is one of the most recognized names in beverage distribution. Over the years, they have served as an important bridge between brewers and local brewers.
If you’ve ordered a beer at a Colorado bar or picked up a case at a local grocery store, Eagle Rock probably had a role to play.
This Georgia-based distributor has been responsible for bringing a wide variety of major beverage brands, including the most popular. Anheuser-Busch premium beers like Busch Light, Budweiser, Bud Lightand imported beers like Hoegaarden and Stella Artois.
More layoffs:
Besides beer, the company also helps distribute craft beers, spirits, energy drinks, and wines, serving six major locations in Colorado.
And now that they are closing all of its Colorado distribution centers, it has the potential to change how alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are distributed in Colorado.
According to the WARN filing, the following 6 sites will be closed:
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A memorial stone
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Grand Junction
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Loveland
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The Pueblo
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Denver/Commerce City
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Durango
A variety of job roles will be affected, including CDL drivers, warehouse workers, account managers, sales professionals, logistics workers, and administrative workers.
Alcohol distributors play an important role in the US beverage industry.
Under the country’s three-tier liquor distribution system, producers such as breweries and wineries are not allowed to sell directly to retailers. Instead, they must rely on wholesale distributors to move products from manufacturers to stores, bars, restaurants, stadiums and hotels.
This structure means that distributors like Eagle Rock serve as the backbone of the brewery’s operations, managing warehousing, transportation, compliance with state liquor laws, marketing and placement, and developing relationships with retailers.
The closing of Eagle Rock’s Colorado operation comes amid a broader shift across the brewery.
In March, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spiritsthe largest wine and spirits distributor in North America, announced that it would find Eagle Rock’s Colorado business.
The acquisition marks a significant expansion for the global distributor, adding “high-profile brands” to its portfolio that “fit well with our comprehensive liquor strategy,” said Wayne E. Chaplin, President and CEO, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
The company said this is a “potential opportunity to distribute the full portfolio of Anheuser-Busch products currently sold in Colorado.”
These include popular names like Bud Light, Budweiser, Michelob ULTRA, and BeatBox Beverages, NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, Phorm Energy, and products from additional suppliers, including Tilray Brands, a leading lifestyle cannabis company.
While, the company’s President, Commercial Sales Mark Chaplin noted that “Eagle Rock’s portfolio and strong presence in Colorado is a natural fit with our strategy and enhances our ability to serve customers and suppliers.”
The alcohol and beverage industry is facing macroeconomic pressures, changing consumer behavior, and rising operating costs. As the industry as a whole is still reeling from the decline in alcohol sales that grew during the violence.
And to combat changing trends and preferences, integration between distributors is increasing. Large national distributors are increasingly acquiring regional operators to expand their reach, strengthen relationships with major beverage brands, and streamline transportation networks.
Southern Glazer already operates in 47 markets in the US and Canada, providing wine, spirits, and other beverages to thousands of retail and hospitality locations.
This acquisition will add significantly to its already established portfolio. But it can also lead to job losses as companies restructure existing distribution networks.
The shutdown also reflects broader consumer trends, which affect the industry.
According to Deloitte’s latest analysis, the alcohol industry is struggling with inflation, rising prices, and supply chain disruptions, which are creating challenges for companies across the sector.
Consumer preferences are changing in ways, forcing companies to rethink their strategies.
Demand for ready-to-drink cocktails, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages is growing, while younger consumers are drinking less alcohol overall.
Research suggests that the best strategy to adapt to changing demands is to evolve with preferences and have a diversified portfolio.
The Eagle Rock, Georgia business will continue to operate fully, maintaining its commitments to suppliers
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This story was originally published by TheStreet on April 8, 2026, where it appeared first in the Employment section. Add TheStreet as a favorite source by clicking here.
