6980 Santa Teresa Blvd., Suite 201, San Jose, CA, United States of America, 95119
Feeds
California Wineries, Meet Your New Distribution Advantage
Wine distribution in California just got a whole lot smarter.
At LibDib, we’ve always believed that modern wineries deserve modern solutions. That’s why we’re excited to roll out a new Hybrid Distribution Model—built specifically for today’s wine brands that want flexibility, transparency, and full control over their path to market.
This isn’t your typical one-size-fits-all distribution model. It’s à la carte distribution designed for how wineries operate now—and how they want to grow.
What Is Hybrid Distribution?
LibDib’s Hybrid Model blends the best of full-service distribution with the freedom to manage your own sales. That means:
- You control the relationships with your accounts (or bring your own rep!)
- LibDib handles all three-tier compliance, invoicing, payments, and reporting
- Access to warehousing, delivery, and merchandising only if and when you need it
- Live sales tracking, buyer insights, and inventory visibility via LibDib’s tech-forward platform
Whether you're just getting started or scaling across the state, this model works on your terms.
Why It Works for California Wineries
✅ Flexible Services
Use what you need—compliance, delivery, inventory, sales support—when you need it. Pay only for what you use.
✅ Bring Your Own Rep
Do you have a rep selling for you already? No problem. We plug into your existing sales structure, giving you full operational support behind the scenes.
✅ Tech-Powered Transparency
Real-time sales and inventory data lets you make informed decisions fast. You’ll know exactly what’s happening with your brand, when and where.
✅ Statewide Reach, No Friction
From chain authorizations to sampling support, we help you reach Buyers across California—with no traditional distributor gatekeeping.
🚚 Seamless Operations, Flexible Shipping
Distribution with LibDib fits the way you already operate:
- Independent account orders can ship flexibly—from your winery or a LibDib warehouse—based on your needs.
- Chain and national account orders are delivered via familiar trucks and drivers already servicing those Buyers, ensuring smooth, professional delivery.
- And the best part? Our markups are very competitive for both fulfillment models, giving you pricing power and protecting your margins.
- We offer warehousing and statewide fulfillment as needed, so design the operations structure that works for you.
Ready to Build Your CA Strategy?
This new model is a game changer for former RNDC brands, startup wineries, or any wine producer in California who wants to sell smarter, not harder. You get the infrastructure of a distributor with the agility of a direct model. Click here for a slide deck or watch our recent webinar for more details.
📞 Let’s map out your go-to-market strategy. Email us at makers@libdib.com to get started—or visit LibDib.com for more info.
California Distribution Options for Small to Mid-Sized Brands
We asked Gemini and the AI answer was spot on.
If you are anything like us, no doubt you’ve started to explore the various LLMs (Large Language Models) available to the public – Google’s Gemini, ChaptGPT, Perplexity, and others are changing the way people find and discover just about anything. And this is only the beginning. Some are saying that by 2028, 75% of all online revenue will be driven by LLM’s vs. search engines and Google reports that 1.5 billion users now regularly use AI Overviews.
If you aren’t thinking about the strategy to maximize how your brands show up in LLMs, now is the time to start. We are in the same boat. Our engineering team has been working on AI solutions for a while now, with LLM top of mind. Because integrating it into the LibDib platform will put Makers in the drivers seat, enabling them to stay top of mind with Buyers and Consumers as the future of search value rapidly changes before our eyes.
So, we recently decided to test the LLMs in our own alcohol distribution space. We turned to Gemini to ask an important question in the beverage alcohol space right now and we were pleasantly surprised at how LibDib showed up.
Our prompt to Gemini was: Given that RNDC is no longer operating in the state of California and I need a new distributor, which distributor should I consider using as a small/midsized alcohol producer?
Here was Gemini’s answer:
This is a critical time for you as a small to mid-sized alcohol producer in California with RNDC exiting the market. The landscape is shifting rapidly, and securing reliable distribution is paramount.
Here's a breakdown of who you should be thinking about, with a focus on both major players and options that might be more aligned with craft/mid-sized producers:
Specialized & Tech-Forward Options (Potentially better fit for small to mid-sized brands):
- LibDib: This is a key player to seriously consider. They are explicitly built for the modern era of alcohol distribution and cater to small and emerging brands. Why they might be a good fit:
- Technology-driven: They offer a web-based platform, real-time data, and an e-commerce experience for buyers, giving you more transparency and control over your relationships.
- Focus on smaller brands: They pride themselves on empowering "Makers" and helping them scale at their own pace, rather than sidelining them in a crowded book.
- Fast transition: They advertise incredibly fast onboarding to get your products to market quickly.
- Support for California: They are actively partnering to support brands affected by the RNDC exit.
The Major Players and their challenges for a small to mid sized producer:
- Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits (SGWS): This is the largest alcohol distributor in the U.S. and a dominant force in California. They have massive reach and a comprehensive portfolio. While they offer unparalleled market penetration, securing attention and a strong position within their vast portfolio can be challenging for smaller brands. You'll be competing with global powerhouses for mindshare. However, they are actively picking up brands from RNDC.
- Breakthru Beverage Group: Another major national player with a significant presence in California (they acquired Wine Warehouse). Similar to Southern Glazer's, they are a large distributor. They may be more open to mid-sized brands than SGWS depending on their portfolio strategy, but still require a strong pitch and a clear value proposition.
- Regional/Boutique Distributors: California is a huge state, and there are excellent regional distributors that specialize in specific areas or categories (e.g., craft beer, fine wine, specific spirits). Examples of this type of distributor include:
- Henry Wine Group (now Winebow): While a larger regional player, they've historically focused on fine wine and spirits, which might align if you're in that segment.
- Regal Wine Co.: Another significant regional player in California wine.
- J&L Wines: Based in Paso Robles, they focus on Central California and have a strong reputation for customer service and supporting craft wine, beer, and spirits.
- Guardian Distributors (Southern California): A boutique distributor focusing on craft beer, which might be a fit if you're a craft brewery or seltzer maker in that region.
- Mindful Distributors (Bay Area): A boutique beer distributor that aims to be more thoughtful and responsive, focusing on quality over quantity of brands.
- Jordanos / Pacific Beverage: A long-standing distributor in California with a wide portfolio, including craft.
LibDib is the only tech-first distributor in the industry. If you're not thinking strategically about where you should invest your time and margins, you risk falling behind.
Interested in learning more about the LibDib option?
Schedule a time to talk to a LibDib portfolio manager here or email us at makers@libdib.com
Han Soju Selects LibDib for California Distribution
Innovative Soju Brand Expands West Coast Presence via Leading Distribution Platform
SAN JOSE, CA – June 20, 2025 – Han Soju, a brand that seamlessly blends centuries-old Korean tradition with modern distillation, announced today that it has chosen LibDib as its distributor of choice in California. Leveraging LibDib’s full-service, online distribution platform, Han Soju will now efficiently reach retailers and on-premise accounts statewide.
Han Soju’s premium line of sojus brings a fresh perspective to the category, delivering a crisp, light, and versatile flavor profile. With fewer calories and lower alcohol content than many Western spirits, Han Soju offers consumers a refreshing option suitable for a variety of occasions—from social gatherings to post-workout relaxation. By merging traditional Korean methods with state-of-the-art distillation, Han Soju has carved out a unique position in the U.S. spirits market.
“Founded in 2002, Han Soju was created specifically to fill a unique niche in the California alcohol market: offering a legal, premium distilled spirit option for On-Premise Beer and Wine-licensed accounts,” said Greg Dathe, Senior Vice President, Sales and Distribution at Han Soju. “Han Soju is the go-to solution for restaurants and bars seeking to serve spirits without upgrading to a full liquor license. With roots in the Korean distilling tradition and a smooth, clean profile ideal for cocktails, Han Soju continues to lead the category it helped pioneer more than two decades ago.”
While the brand has a foothold in chain and liquor accounts, their largest volume and growth potential are the 25,000+ 41 & 42 licenses in California that LibDib enables them to sell into. Although California remains a complex and highly competitive market, as consolidation across the three tiers continues to reshape the alcohol industry, LibDib’s technology-driven approach offers a modern alternative. Suppliers like Han Soju maintain control over their pricing, marketing, and buyer relationships while gaining full-service support that includes compliance, logistics, portfolio management, and platform-based advertising.
“Han Soju is an exciting brand with strong growth potential and high-volume opportunity. We’re thrilled to welcome them as a Gold Maker on the LibDib platform,” said Cheryl Durzy, Founder and CEO of LibDib. “Our model was built for companies like Han Soju—those who want both control and scalability without being tied to traditional distributor constraints.”
With LibDib, Han Soju gains access to statewide delivery options, servicing orders from single cases to full pallets across wine and beer licenses, making them a great spirit-like ingredient on cocktail menus. The brand can now engage directly with accounts, while LibDib manages backend operations, regulatory compliance, and delivery infrastructure.
LibDib currently offers licensed distribution in 18 markets, including California, New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois, and others. Its flexible model allows each supplier to tailor their go-to-market strategy while reducing unnecessary costs and maintaining brand ownership.
About Han Soju
Han Soju brings a modern twist to an ancient Korean spirit, combining tradition with innovation. The brand’s premium sojus are known for their crisp, light taste and versatility, offering a refreshing alternative for today’s consumers.
About LibDib
LibDib, LLC is a licensed wholesale alcohol distributor and technology innovator, offering a compliant three-tier distribution platform for wine and spirits makers of all sizes. With an easy-to-use marketplace, LibDib simplifies the buying and selling experience for both suppliers and trade buyers across the country. Learn more at LibDib.com or follow LibDib on Instagram and LinkedIn.
LibDib and The Beverage Blueprint Partner to Support California Makers with Merchandising and Chain Services
SAN JOSE, CA – June 18, 2025 – LibDib, the leading web-based wholesale alcohol distributor, today announced a new partnership with The Beverage Blueprint to support wine, spirits, no- and low-alcohol brands seeking distribution in California. This partnership offers full-service merchandising and chain retail support for Makers with existing business, as well as a tailored “à la carte” solution for brands transitioning from traditional distributors.
With this partnership, LibDib expands its footprint beyond logistics and compliance, now offering merchandising services, chain retail support, and onboarding solutions that are specifically designed for brands navigating change—especially those impacted by recent shifts in the California distribution landscape.
“This partnership gives our clients an on-the-ground solution to activate and expand in California,” said Will Clark, Founder of The Beverage Blueprint. “We work closely with suppliers to build and execute strategies that move product and grow brands, and LibDib’s technology-driven distribution model aligns perfectly with that mission.”
LibDib’s expanded offering includes access to a merchandising team that supports all categories, including wine, spirits, and emerging no/low alcohol products. Brands can now opt into these services as needed, creating a flexible and scalable path to market.
“This is the right solution at the right time,” said Cheryl Durzy, Founder and CEO of LibDib. “California Makers—especially those impacted by recent changes—need options. LibDib, in partnership with The Beverage Blueprint, is ready to support new and existing brands with a full-service approach that’s cost-effective, customizable, and built to scale.”
The new merchandising and chain support service is available now for LibDib Makers in California, with multiple pricing tiers based on need and market presence. This includes support for placement, execution, and in-store performance, with a focus on enabling brand growth in retail chains and key independent accounts.
For more on how LibDib’s à la carte distribution model works, read the blog post: Distribution à la Carte: A Smarter Way Forward for Wine and Spirits Suppliers
The Beverage Blueprint helps Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Specialty Beverage suppliers navigate the three-tier system and build impactful, successful brands. Together with LibDib, this partnership provides a modern, flexible distribution solution designed for today’s evolving alcohol industry.
About LibDib
LibDib, LLC is a licensed wholesale alcohol distributor and technology innovator, offering a compliant three-tier distribution platform for wine and spirits makers of all sizes. With an easy-to-use marketplace, LibDib simplifies the buying and selling experience for both suppliers and trade buyers across the country. Learn more at LibDib.com or follow LibDib on Instagram and LinkedIn.
About The Beverage Blueprint
The Beverage Blueprint provides strategic consulting and sales execution services for wine, beer, spirits, and specialty beverage suppliers. Focused on navigating the complex three-tier system, The Beverage Blueprint enables brands to activate markets, build visibility, and drive retail performance.
Distribution à la Carte: A Smarter Way Forward for Wine and Spirits Suppliers
In today’s evolving alcohol industry, one-size-fits-all distribution no longer works for every brand. Consolidation across the three tiers, shifting priorities at large distributors, and increasing demand for control and flexibility have changed the game—especially for small to mid-sized wine and spirits suppliers.
At LibDib, we believe in doing things differently. We give suppliers the tools to build their own route to market with Distribution à la Carte—meaning, you only pay for the services you need. No outdated programs, no hidden fees, no monthly minimums. Just distribution, on your terms.
What Is “Distribution à la Carte”?
Put simply, it’s the idea that you choose your route to market. LibDib offers a full-service, licensed distribution platform in 18 key markets, including California, our flagship state. We have the infrastructure, tech, and partnerships to support all kinds of go-to-market strategies—but we don’t require everyone to use everything. Resulting in dollar savings for Suppliers as well as more control over their brand.
Need warehousing and chain fulfillment? Great.
Prefer to place orders and ship one case at a time? That works too.
You build your own strategy, and LibDib plugs in where needed.
What We Offer—When You Need It
Here are just a few ways LibDib’s à la carte approach can support your business:
✅ Warehousing & Fulfillment
With all the recent changes in California….do you need statewide delivery coverage? We’ve got full-service warehousing and logistics capabilities. But if you already have a storage solution or prefer to work with a specific warehouse—we’re flexible. Use ours, or bring your own.
✅ Merchandising & Brand Activation
Want boots-on-the-ground support for tastings, events, or store-level promotion? We work with trusted partners who specialize in alcohol industry merchandising and sampling. Tap into their services when you need them—skip them when you don’t.
✅ Sales Support & Broker Network
Not every brand has a full sales team. That’s where our network comes in. LibDib maintains a growing database of experienced brand ambassadors, brokers, and independent reps who are available to help drive placements and build awareness. You choose who fits your brand—and how much support you need.
And in today’s job market, that’s easier than ever. With major industry shifts underway, hundreds of skilled sales professionals are actively looking for new roles. Many have long-standing account relationships and deep market knowledge. Hire one to sell your product—and let LibDib take care of the rest: invoicing, compliance, logistics, reporting and reorders.
✅ Real-Time Tech + Insights
All LibDib Makers (that’s what we call our suppliers) get access to a modern, tech-forward dashboard. You’ll see orders, account activity, fulfillment timelines, and buyer data in real time. These insights are key to running your business—not just on LibDib, but across all your markets. Also included are real time forecasts, stale account data and much much more.
Why It Matters Now
The alcohol distribution landscape is changing rapidly. Consolidation has left many brands without representation—or with limited visibility in massive portfolios. It’s a critical moment to reassess your strategy and consider smarter, more flexible options.
LibDib is built for this moment. We give you the legal path to market, plus the tools to scale. Our team works with your team, we build your playbook, and allow Suppliers to control their own growth.
Pay for What You Use. Scale When You’re Ready.
Whether you are filling a gap in California or scaling nationwide, LibDib can support your goals. Add services as needed. No long-term contracts. No exclusivity. A distribution partner that adapts to you.
It’s time to think differently.
It’s time for Distribution à la Carte.
Ready to build your ideal distribution model?
Let’s talk. LibDib is ready when you are.
The Alcohol Industry Is Evolving. Smart Suppliers Are Too
As we all know, the alcohol industry is changing—and fast. Whether you’re a supplier, buyer, or distributor, it’s impossible to ignore the major shifts taking place across all tiers. The traditional three-tier system, while still intact, is being redefined by innovation, consolidation, and the growing need for flexibility. For suppliers especially, it’s becoming clear that the traditional distributor route-to-market doesn’t work for everyone anymore.
One of the most significant signals of this evolution? Major supplier players are forging their own paths and rethinking distribution. With moves like that, it’s not just a trend—it’s a transformation.
Changes in California? That’s where LibDib comes in
LibDib was built for this. We empower suppliers (Makers as we call them) to manage their own buyer relationships while we handle everything else: logistics, compliance, delivery, and even data access. With warehouses across the state, full delivery coverage, chain authorizations, and a dedicated Portfolio Management team, we make distribution simple, fast, and scalable in many markets, California being one of them.
A Smarter, More Agile Route to Market
Makers, in rethinking a route-to-market strategy. It is time to start leveraging platforms like LibDib to take control of your brands, own your customer relationships, and build flexible sales strategies that adapt to your needs.
Here are just a few ways forward-thinking suppliers are using LibDib to build success:
1. Tap Into Talent You Already Trust
Have a special relationship with one of your former distributor sales reps? Hire them. They already know your brand, understand the market, and have existing buyer relationships. Use LibDib as your distributor and let your rep do what they do best—sell. We’ll take care of the backend, from delivery and compliance to reporting and data access.
2. Form a Collaborative Sales Team
Several non-competing suppliers can join forces to build a lean, efficient sales team. Pool your resources, hire a couple of experienced reps, and use LibDib as your shared distributor. This gives you the same level of market access as a traditional distributor—but with far more control, transparency, and support.
3. Data-Driven Decisions with Modern Tech
LibDib isn’t just a distributor—it’s a technology company at its core. Our modern platform gives suppliers real-time access to powerful insights via an intuitive dashboard. Track orders, monitor account activity, analyze Buyer behavior, and view fulfillment details—all in one place. These data-driven tools help you optimize your sales strategy, identify new opportunities, and make smarter decisions—not just on LibDib, but across your entire business. It’s the kind of transparency and control today’s brands need to grow. We also have a best--in-class e-commerce experience for Buyers that want to shop and purchase on their own.
4. Fast, Frictionless Transition
Once you decide to use LibDib for California distribution, the transition is incredibly fast. We can be up and running—taking orders—within days. Your product data, pricing, and availability are uploaded almost instantaneously. No delays. No red tape. Just speed, service, and state-wide access. Suppliers will not miss a beat when it comes to National Accounts.
Built for the Short Term. Designed for the Long Term.
Some suppliers may look to LibDib as a short-term solution while they search for another traditional distributor in California. That’s totally fine—we’re here to help however we can. But savvy suppliers are realizing that our model isn’t just a stopgap. It’s the future of alcohol distribution.
Why?
Because with LibDib:
- You control your relationships. You’re not one of hundreds of brands fighting for attention in a crowded book.
- You scale at your pace. Whether you have a small, focused footprint or want to expand quickly, we have the capabilities to grow with you.
- You get transparency. Data, pricing, orders—everything is at your fingertips.
- You save money. Our margins are fair, and our technology does the heavy lifting.
Welcome to the New Era of Distribution
The alcohol industry will continue to evolve—and consolidation in the distribution tier will likely accelerate. But that doesn’t mean suppliers have to settle for less access, less attention, or less control.
LibDib offers an alternative that’s already working for hundreds of brands. We’ve built a platform that supports you, not sidelines you. And in a market as important as California, that support is critical.
And here’s something important to remember as you weigh your options:
LibDib is a distributor—first and foremost. We’re not an importer, broker, or back-office service with monthly minimums or hidden fees. We’re a real distributor with deep relationships at key accounts and a team of experts who know how to get your products to market—and keep them moving.
So, if you’re affected by the RNDC exit—or you’re simply ready for a smart, modern distribution strategy—let’s talk. LibDib can be your distributor. We’ll get you to market fast, help keep your accounts, and give you the tools you need to grow.
The future of distribution is here. And it's more flexible, transparent, and supplier-friendly than ever. Reach out to us makers@libdib.com.
RNDC and LibDib Expand On Demand Distribution Model to Seven New States
Wine and Spirits Makers Have Access to 75% of US Market
May 12, 2025 – LibDib, the leading digital alcohol distribution platform, in partnership with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), proudly announces the expansion of RNDC On Demand to six new markets: Florida, Virginia (wine only), Washington D.C., Maryland, Colorado, Illinois, and South Carolina.
This strategic rollout provides wine and spirits producers—from emerging brands to established suppliers—with more choices to access key markets through a flexible, tech-enabled distribution model.
“Suppliers deserve options, and RNDC On Demand provides flexibility and control,” said Dean Parker, Director of the On Demand program for LibDib and RNDC. “Together, we’re expanding a modern path to market that empowers suppliers to grow at their own pace, backed by RNDC’s logistics and service excellence.”
Powered by LibDib’s proven digital platform, RNDC On Demand allows Makers to quickly and compliantly enter new markets. Products can be launched and delivered efficiently to on- and off-premise accounts, including national and regional chains. As brands grow, they have the opportunity to transition into full-service RNDC distribution, offering a scalable solution that supports long-term success.
“The expansion of RNDC On Demand gives us access to buyers in key growth markets,” said Jessica Cox, Founder of Just Enough Wines. “Our experience with the On Demand model in Texas was instrumental in scaling our presence and ultimately transitioning to full-service distribution. We’re excited to bring that same momentum to new states.”
“This is about putting control in the hands of the suppliers,” said Cheryl Durzy, Founder and CEO of LibDib. “RNDC has been a key innovation partner, helping us advance our mission of making distribution accessible to all Makers. With On Demand, we’re expanding our reach and offering flexible solutions tailored to each brand’s goals, size, and target markets.”
In crossover states such as Florida, Colorado, Illinois, Washington D.C., and Maryland—where both LibDib and RNDC On Demand operate—suppliers can work directly with portfolio managers to select the distribution model that best fits their brand and complies with local regulations.
Whether launching a new product or expanding market presence, LibDib and RNDC On Demand provide:
Access to high-potential markets
Scalable pathways to full-service distribution
Digital tools to manage products and accounts
Support at every stage of business growth
By combining digital innovation with trusted distribution expertise, LibDib and RNDC are redefining what’s possible in the alcohol beverage industry—empowering suppliers to grow how they want, where they want.
With this expansion, LibDib now enables three-tier compliant distribution in 18 states, covering nearly every major U.S. market and approximately 75% of available accounts.
Makers interested in distribution in one or more of the 18 markets available can reach out to makers@libdib.com or click here for more information.
About LibDib
LibDib, LLC is a licensed wholesale alcohol distributor and technology innovator, offering a compliant three-tier distribution platform for wine and spirits makers of all sizes. With an easy-to-use marketplace, LibDib simplifies the buying and selling experience for both suppliers and trade buyers across the country. Learn more at LibDib.com or follow LibDib on LinkedIn.
About RNDC
Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) is a world-class distributor of fine wines and spirits in North America. With operations across 39 states and the District of Columbia, RNDC offers a broad portfolio of premium brands, unparalleled logistics capabilities, and innovative technology solutions that support the success of suppliers and customers alike. Focused on exceptional service and industry-leading expertise, RNDC is committed to building long-term partnerships and helping brands thrive in today’s dynamic marketplace. Learn more at www.rndc-usa.com
LibDib Named “Best Technology Innovation” by Beverage Wholesaler
San Jose, CA, December 3, 2024 – LibDib, the leading web-based alcohol distributor, proudly announces its recognition for “Best Technology Innovation” by Beverage Wholesaler in their prestigious Distributor Best Practices Awards. This accolade underscores LibDib's commitment to transforming the beverage alcohol industry through cutting-edge technology, specifically the company's LibTech SaaS division.
"We are absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition as it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team to push the boundaries of what's possible in the beverage distribution space,” said Richard Brashears, COO of LibDib and General Manager of the LibTech Division. “Our mission has always been to transform the industry through cutting-edge technology and this recognition affirms that we have built the leading platform. The LibTech division now brings this platform to any beverage alcohol industry player.”
Beverage Wholesaler announced their first annual Distributor Best practice Awards, in their Winter 2024 issue. The awards honor wholesaler leaders who have demonstrated innovation in running efficient, successful operations. LibDib’s technology innovation award was featured alongside other winning distributors including Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) for Best Sustainability Initiative, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits for Best On-Premise Activation Program, Breakthru Beverage Group for Best Workforce Development Program, and Columbia Distributing for Best Warehouse Innovation.
“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside the most prestigious names in distribution,” said Cheryl Durzy, Founder and CEO of LibDib. “This truly validates the hard work and innovation that has gone into building our platform and affirms our approach to technology-driven distribution.”
As both a technology provider and licensed wholesale distributor, LibDib has revolutionized the industry with its robust online platform. This platform offers legal three-tier distribution to any wine or spirits supplier, seamlessly integrating distribution, online ordering, reporting, and AI-enabled sales tools. The result is an unparalleled data-driven experience for suppliers and buyers alike.
Currently, LibDib provides online distribution across 16 markets, with plans to expand into additional markets soon. The platform supports over 15,000 products from 1,500 suppliers, marking a significant milestone as the first distributor to offer such extensive access to any supplier.
In 2019, LibDib began licensing its platform to RNDC, the industry's second-largest wholesaler. This collaboration has facilitated over $1.8 billion in orders. Building on this success, LibDib launched LibTech in 2024, a dedicated division focused on making their proven platform available to other three-tier businesses. LibTech has already gained traction with mid-sized wholesalers and suppliers nationwide. Recently, Best Brands, a leading statewide distributor in Tennessee, adopted LibDib's technology to enhance their online distribution and data capabilities.
Beverage Wholesaler is the leading publication for the beverage alcohol industry, dedicated exclusively to wholesalers, distributors, and brokers. Reaching over 6,500 decision-makers nationwide, it serves as a critical resource for the beer, wine, and distilled spirits sectors.
About LibDib
LibDib, LLC, is a technology provider and licensed wholesale distributor of alcoholic beverages. By leveraging a proprietary marketplace, LibDib offers comprehensive three-tier distribution solutions to wine and spirits makers. The platform simplifies purchasing for restaurants, bars, and retailers, providing access to thousands of unique products. For more information, visit LibDib.com or follow LibDib on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
LibDib Expands into America’s Capital
LibDib opens the Washington D.C. market to ALL wine and spirits brands, bringing platform-based alcohol distribution to a 16th major U.S. market
San Jose, CA, November 20, 2024𑁋LibDib announced today that the web-based alcohol distributor has expanded into a sixteenth U.S. market and now offers wine and spirits distribution into Washington D.C. LibDib’s platform-based distribution model allows any and all compliant wine and spirits suppliers to secure wholesale distribution in this market.
“Washington D.C. is a key wine and spirits market and I am beyond thrilled to provide distribution to any brand in our nation’s capital,” said Cheryl Durzy, founder and CEO of LibDib. “Our model provides new market growth opportunities to thousands of Makers. Anyone interested in expanding their distribution should sign up.”
LibDib has opened the market to any and all wine and spirits Makers to sign up and enter offerings on the platform. Current LibDib Makers and new suppliers interested in distribution in Washington D.C. can also express interest here. Washington D.C. retailers, bars and restaurants can sign up online at LibDib.com to access thousands of new and emerging brands
About LibDib
LibDib, LLC, is a technology provider and a licensed wholesale distributor of alcoholic beverages. Via a proprietary marketplace, LibDib is available to any wine or spirits maker for three-tier distribution. Using LibDib, Restaurants, Bars & Retailers can easily and efficiently purchase thousands of unique and small batch wines and spirits. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in San Jose, California. LibDib can be found online at LibDib.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Media contact Holly Nuss at holly.nuss@libdib.com.
The LibDib “Happiness Curve
Since 2017, we’ve proudly touted our fun tagline at LibDib: “We deliver happiness.” Everything we do aims to keep all sides of the equation (Maker, Buyer and LibDibber) happy and satisfied with our platform and operational processes.
So, let’s chat about what we call the LibDib “Happiness Curve” and how to keep the good vibes going from start to finish.
First off, we know that distribution isn’t a walk in the park. Whomever you choose as your distributor, there’s a lot of compliance, pricing and operational complexities to work through. However, with patience and effort comes reward. In most cases, LibDib Makers simply enter their information once and then maintain their LibDib accounts with minimal effort in the future.
Sure there can be some bumps in the road, especially in the very beginning. However, by following a few tips Makers can keep a smile on their face while jetting around the platform for all of their distribution needs.
Note: Our team can provide most Makers with an initial 30-minute consultation about how LibDib works and then send you on your way with some direction and links. However, if you need more assistance or a “Spirit Guide” throughout your journey, consider a LibDib Extras Program.
- Compliance is key. Makers need to understand how compliance works. In short, you need a TTB Basic Permit, a Home State Permit and something (permit, price posting, Brand Label registration, or a combination of the three) in the state where the products are to be sold. The first two pages of our Go Live Guides outline what is needed. And yes, it is different in every state.
- Know LibDib logistics. Shipping can feel like a puzzle at times. In most states, there are two shipping legs. New York and Florida are the exceptions, where you choose between one or two legs (depending on the Buyer’s preferences). We use LibShip (powered by FedEx) for the first leg of shipping—it’s built into our platform, keeps things compliant, and it’s economical too. Costs for this are billed back to Makers. The second leg is handled by our warehouse partners, with a Dock and Delivery fee built into the Buyer's cost. Also, don’t forget your Alcohol Shippers Permit—and make sure your shipments are packed safely. Damaged shipments are a quick way to kill the happy vibes.
- Know the costs. Here is a very detailed outline of what it costs to be on LibDib. Do not be surprised about a shipping billback. That is a definite happiness killer.
- Have basic knowledge of distribution and the LibDib business model. LibDib is most successful for the Makers who utilize the platform to access three-tier markets via technology. Our Basic model is free for everyone, so all Makers have a route to market. However, Makers should understand that just because you post something on LibDib, it doesn’t mean it is going to sell. Just like in traditional distribution channels, Makers need to “make their own rain.” Without this understanding, Makers can be disappointed that their offerings are not selling in volume. Remember--the beverage alcohol industry is a highly competitive space. Makers need to own their relationships and brand stories while giving Buyers a reason to buy products. If you want assistance in your first placements, LibDib’s Gold program provides Makers with opportunities. Click here for more information.
- Handle the hiccups with patience and kindness. If things go haywire; be timely…and kind. 95-98% of shipments are fulfilled without incident. For about 2-5% of shipments, there are “issues.” Breakage, warehouse mispicks, confused Buyers. It happens. Makers. Please know that LibDibbers are always working hard to fix a situation gone wrong. Please respond in a timely manner. If you are frustrated, please don’t take it out on our team or the LibDib process. Sh*t happens. But we will all get through it together.
We hope this helps all you LibDib Makers enjoy a smooth start and long-term distribution success with LibDib.
About
LibDib is the first fully licensed, three-tier distributor with a web platform. This platform allows Restaurants, Bars & Retailers (RB&Rs) to legally and efficiently purchase boutique wines and craft spirits made by Makers of all sizes. LibDib manages the delivery and handles all payment processing, for a streamlined distribution process.
Via LibDib, any Maker of specialty wine and craft spirits, can easily create an account and input their products of choice. After uploading a license and basic information, Makers define each SKU, calculats the listed wholesale price, and define where to distribute product—down to the account level.
Using LibDib, Buyers upload a license and purchase products online, streamlining the order process for both parties. Buyers can access sales materials within the platform, communicate directly with Makers, request samples, or set up automatic reorders or reminders. Buyers then receive the product via a LibDib distribution partner, 3PL or a common carrier (depending on the market and compliance regulations).
LibDib is available in more than 10 U.S. markets.
Contact
Contact List
| Title | Name | Phone | Extension | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Director, Maker Experience | Tanya Riesbeck | makers@libdib.com | 408-769-2129 | 1008 |
| COO/CTO | Richard Brashears | richard.brashears@libdib.com | ||
| CEO | Cheryl Durzy | cheryl.durzy@libdib.com | 408-769-2129 | |
| Director, Reseller Experience | Helene Venegas | resellers@libdib.com | 408-769-2129 | 1002 |
| Sr. Director of Marketing | Holly Nuss | holly.nuss@libdib.com | 408-769-2129 | 1013 |
Location List
| Locations | Address | State | Country | Zip Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberation Distribution, Inc. | 6980 Santa Teresa Blvd., Suite 201, San Jose | CA | United States of America | 95119 |
List of Locations
Facebook feeds
Profile Picture