Lakewood Brewing partners with Andrews Distributing Co.

Andrews Distributing Co. recently announced a new partnership with Lakewood Brewing Co., one of the fastest growing craft breweries in North Texas. The deal will expand the brewery’s reach and brand by harnessing the power of the Andrews marketing expertise and its distributor relationships.

“Craft beers are a huge part of the explosive growth in the beer industry, and it’s a business driver for us,” said Mike McGuire, president of Andrews Distributing Co., in a recent press release. “Our unique approach helps breweries such as Lakewood grow by providing immediate marketing expertise and distribution to retailers and restaurants so they can spend their time perfecting brews. This industry is growing at a stunning pace; we help both sides understand each other to match beers to the right audiences and customers. We also help retailers makes sense of the craft industry and connect them with the right breweries and selections.”

The approach works. Andrews holds a 76 percent North Texas market share in the Specialty and Craft category, which includes Shiner Bock, Blue Moon, Samuel Adams and Fort Worth-based Rahr and Son’s Brewing Co., which has had a 55 percent annual growth rate since 2009 when it began distribution with Andrews.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Andrews Distributing,” said Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood Brewing, who has been self-distributing since 2012. “Lakewood Brewing and Andrews are both family-owned businesses with an unwavering dedication to quality and customer service. Their expertise in brand building and distribution will allow us to focus on filling the ever- increasing demand for the beer we love to make.”

Andrews has initiated retail account service for Lakewood products this month. Distribution of the full portfolio will begin in May.