Kendall’s Pioneer Distributing, a Kelso-based beverage distribution company, is in the process of merging with Corwin Beverage Company of Ridgefield, the regional distributor of Pepsi products.
Kendall’s Pioneer was formed in 2013 by the owners of Corwin Beverage to support the growing regional craft beer and wine industry. The company supports more than 40 brands with distribution to 400 establishments across 10 Southwest Washington counties.
Keith Richards, CEO of Corwin Beverage Company, said that bringing the two companies together will strengthen Corwin’s position in a changing market.
“As our businesses evolve and the marketplace changes, it became apparent that we are a stronger and more scalable company by combining forces,” said Richards. “The combined effort brings a fresh entrepreneurial spirit to Corwin Beverage while providing substantial distribution and sales leverage for Kendall’s Pioneer and its suppliers.”
The united organization will operate from the Corwin Beverage’s Ridgefield headquarters. Corwin will maintain a unique sales and merchandising effort for regional craft brands led by Erik Bjerkman, who served as general manager for Kendall’s Pioneer.
The two management teams are currently developing a staffing plan to accommodate sales growth for the combined organization.
The merger is expected to be complete by the end of 2016.
