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.