Point Blank Distributing sold to Columbia Distributing
Point Blank to Remain a Craft-Focused Division within Columbia
This article has been updated with additional context and information since it was first published.
Columbia Distributing today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Point Blank Distributing, a respected Oregon craft-focused distributor, with the transaction expected to close on March 31, 2026. This huge shakeup in the beer business has been rumored ever since Deschutes Brewery (a longtime Columbia Distributing brand) acquired Boneyard Beer (a core Point Blank Distributing brand) in 2021. Rumors of a transaction intensified in 2022 when another Point Blank cornerstone brand pFriem Family Brewers, signed with Columbia Distributing for Washington distribution.
Columbia Distributing is one of the largest beer distributors in the U.S. Their history of Oregon wholesale acquisitions stretches back to 2018 when Columbia picked up General Distributors (GDI) in another controversial shakeup that saw multiple breweries left out in the cold, or in direct conflict with their new distributor arrangement.
Point Blank has spent more than 25 years building deep relationships with craft breweries and retailers across Oregon, earning a reputation for disciplined execution, on-premise expertise, and service-first partnership. Columbia’s says the acquisition is designed to preserve those strengths while providing additional long-term investment, infrastructure, and support for Point Blank’s suppliers and customers.
Following the close, Point Blank will operate as a dedicated craft beer division within Columbia, maintaining its craft-first focus, service model, and brewer relationships—now backed by Columbia’s statewide logistics network, unmatched merchandising and category resources.
“This is a relationship-driven decision, first and foremost,” said Chris Steffanci, President and CEO of Columbia Distributing. “Point Blank has built something special by staying focused on craft, service, and trust. Our goal is simple: protect what makes Point Blank successful and strengthen it with long-term investment, people, and infrastructure that help suppliers and retailers grow.”
According to the announcement from Columbia Distributing; Point Blank’s supplier and retail partners, the transition is designed to be seamless. Day-to-day service, sales relationships, and portfolio focus will remain consistent, supported by expanded capabilities that enhance execution and reach.
It’s unclear how the merger could accommodate two different teams and keep on multiple people in the same positions. As with most if not every acquisition like this, after a period of time inefficiencies are eliminated to maximize profits and value. There is no mention in the announcement about Point Blank’s current homebase in N. Portland will be eliminated and consolidated to Columbia’s in Wilsonville, but it seems inevitable. New School Beer has reached out to Columbia representatives for comment and clarification on these questions.
“I started my career at Columbia and cut my teeth there for 15 years. This new partnership sets our craft partners up for success with more resources and more reach. This is going to be a great opportunity for their long-term growth,” said Scott Willis, Owner of Point Blank Distributing.
Columbia Distributing also provided comment from some Point Blank brewers who are positive on the acquisition. But New School Beer reached out to a number of other breweries who had no prior knowledge of what was going down, and were caught completely unaware and still trying to figure out what it will mean for their business and operations.
“For almost 14 years, pFriem has had an amazing partnership with Point Blank Distributing. They have been deeply committed to the consumer and our team and have been a great representative of our brand. We have also had the opportunity to work with Columbia in Washington, where we have an excellent partner that takes great care of both the customer and our brand. We are excited for the two to join forces in Oregon to continue the customer service platform that Point Blank has built, backed by the scale and strength of Columbia—creating a stronger resource to keep our customers happy by delivering fresh, cold-stored beer across the state,” said Josh Pfriem, co-founder of pFriem Family Brewers.
“Point Blank has been an outstanding brand builder and executor from the outset. The Point Blank team’s skill and work ethic over the last decade helped propel Boneyard RPM IPA to become the top craft beer product in Oregon. Partnering with Columbia will further enhance Point Blank’s ability to be effective across more channels and a broader account universe. This is the next big step for the Boneyard brand, and we couldn’t be happier to see our two most important distributor partners come together,” said Peter Skrbek, CEO of Deschutes Brewery.
By combining Point Blank’s craft expertise with Columbia’s operational scale, the transaction creates a durable growth platform for craft beer in Oregon—one that prioritizes brand stewardship, service quality, and long-term partnerships.
“This is about continuity and opportunity,” added Steffanci. “We’re committed to earning trust every day—just as Point Blank has done for decades.”
About Columbia Distributing
Since 1935, Columbia Distributing has helped build some of the best-known brands in the beverage business. Today, Columbia and its teammates service more than 24,000 retail customers across Oregon and Washington. Columbia’s success is rooted in strong relationships, reliable service, and a commitment to long-term growth for suppliers, customers, teammates, and the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.coldist.com.
About Point Blank Distributing
Founded more than 25 years ago, Point Blank Distributing is a craft-focused beverage distributor serving Oregon, known for its deep on-premise expertise, strong supplier partnerships, and commitment to service and quality.