US distributor Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits has acquired Horizon Beverage Group’s assets.
The acquisition was first announced in July 2024 and closed on 27 December 2024.
Effective immediately, Horizon’s operations in Massachusetts and Rhode Island will operate under Southern Glazer’s Beverage Company.
The purchase includes all of Horizon’s assets, including operations and its wine, spirits, and beer portfolios.
Horizon employs more than 600 people, operates 800,000 square feet of warehouse space and has a fleet of nearly 100 delivery vehicles.
The acquisition marks a significant expansion for Southern Glazer’s, adding Massachusetts and Rhode Island as the 46th and 47th markets in its US footprint, alongside operations in Canada and the Caribbean.
Wayne E Chaplin, chief executive officer of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, commented: “With this acquisition, we’re combining Horizon’s deep regional expertise with Southern Glazer’s advanced technology and robust resources. We are excited to bring customers and suppliers enhanced tools, data insights, and service offerings that position us to meet and exceed their needs in these vital markets.”
Massachusetts and Rhode Island will be part of Southern Glazer’s East Region, led by the region’s president, Scott Oppenheimer.
Bob Epstein, CEO and co-chairman of Horizon Beverage Group, said: “We are grateful to Horizon’s employees, customers, and partners for so many years of success, and this transition represents an even brighter future for all. We’re confident that Southern Glazer’s strength and scale will not only support a smooth integration but also create new opportunities for growth and success.”
Southern Glazer’s is a family-owned company and the biggest alcohol distributor in the US.
Jim Rubenstein, co-chairman of Horizon Beverage Group, added: “We’re committed to maintaining the exceptional service that Horizon is known for while bringing the added benefits of being part of the Southern Glazer’s family. This partnership ensures stability and growth for all stakeholders and strengthens our ability to deliver value across the board.”
Last month, Southern Glazer’s was the subject of a complaint by the Federal Trade Commission, which alleged the firm had violated the Robinson-Patman Act.
Earlier in the year, the distributor agreed to a US$5.5 million settlement to resolve a class action lawsuit over alleged illegal late fees, as well as a complaint from online alcohol marketplace Provi.
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Author: Miona Madsen
