Celebrating 48 Years in Business

Reyes Beverage Group — 5 min read

Feb 6, 2024

Collage of Schlitz beer truck from 1976 and a modern day office building with a newspaper background

On February 4, 1976, chart-topping singles like “Convoy” by C.W. McCall and “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” by Paul Simon played from cassette tapes across the nation. “The Sunshine Boys” starring Walter Matthau and George Burns became the top-grossing film of the week. It was an election year, and Gerald Ford would concede the presidency to Jimmy Carter in nine months.

Schlitz beer delivery truck on a road in South Carolina from 1976

But also on that day in the small town of Spartanburg, South Carolina, in the brisk 50-degree winter weather, two brothers - Chris and Jude Reyes - purchased a Schlitz beer distributorship, marking the start of a legacy from humble beginnings.

The business would evolve to become a global leader in the production and distribution of food and beverage products - and the 6th largest privately held company in America.

Over the past 48 years, the company has experienced incredible growth and change, but the commitment to our people, relationships and to running a good business has never wavered.

Gold Coast Beverage distribution center office in Florida

Reyes Beverage Group (RBG) expanded from one distributorship in South Carolina to 51 facilities across 12 markets in the United States. In 2015, RBG acquired Gold Coast Beverage in Miami, solidifying Reyes Beverage Group as the largest beer distributor in the United States.

With extensive reach and regional expertise, our facilities offer the best of both worlds - great local knowledge and service with the portfolio, reach and scale of a true industry leader.

Sales representative looking at an iPad with a business owner in a restaurant

We’ve embraced emerging technology, spearheaded innovative solutions and evolved to match the pace of where consumers are headed. From traditional beer, to craft brews, seltzers, non-alcoholic beverages, ready-to-drink canned cocktails and spirits, RBG offers a brand for every taste.

Our employees have continued their journeys with us over the last 48 years, with many celebrating double-digit milestone anniversaries along the way.

Reyes Beverage Group is proud to be a part of the Reyes Family of Businesses and we remain a family-run business to this day. Cheers to the last 48 years in business and many more to come!