Block 15 Distribution Company launches with De Garde Brewing and Bespoken Coffee

Corvallis's Block 15 Brewing has built a substantial following and self-distribution network in Oregon and is now leveraging that into their own distribution company with regional brands. From their auspicious starts as a local brewpub first, to building an elaborate barrel-program, launching 16oz cans to building a very busy distribution team, Block 15 has eschewed traditional business models.

Block 15 Distribution will be an independent owned and operated company that will distribute pacific northwest regional brands like De Garde Brewing and Bespoken Coffee Roasters.

Block 15's marketing director Seth Steiling says Block 15 Distribution "strongly focuses on equitable partnerships, care for the product, and ethical business practices."

Ninkasi Brewing operates a distribution company in Eugene and Fort George has one in Astoria, but they distribute only to their county's. Block 15 Distribution will be a little different in that unlike the former companies that focus on their insular regions, Block 15 will distribute throughout the PNW.

"We cover as far south as Ashland, to the east we go as far as far as Tricities, Pendleton & Central Oregon, to the north we send trucks to Washington through Seattle and Bellingham," says Nick Arzner, Block 15 founding brewer and co-owner. "We are picking up from our suppliers this week and will begin distribution next week."

Arzner says it's been a huge undertaking for Block 15 but “After a year-long process of restructuring our licensing company-wide and dialing in our distribution systems, we’re so excited to launch this new endeavor in partnership with companies that we really believe in.”

“We landed on a model that is designed to enable the passionate small and medium-sized producer, with aspirations of moderate growth, to share their artistic offerings throughout Oregon and Washington,” Arzner continued. “All aspects of our approach to distribution—from our fixed length contracts to our overarching mission—will focus on equitable relationships with our partners. As our brewery has developed a robust self-distribution program over the years, we have prioritized efficiency, impeccable care for the product, and enthusiastic relationships with our accounts. We will draw on these same values as we champion the artistic visions of our partner producers.”

Eventually, Block 15 Distribution envisions a small family of artisan producers working in unison to provide the region with high quality and thoughtfully made goods, with a focus on suppliers who emphasize employee welfare, environmentally sustainable practices, and the creation of truly unique offerings that evolve their segment and complement the overall portfolio. At launch, Block 15 Distribution is partnering with de Garde Brewing out of Tillamook, OR and Bespoken Coffee Roasters out of Corvallis, OR.

“After many collaborations and years of friendship, we are honored to be working with Block 15 for distribution in Oregon and Washington,” said de Garde co-owners Trevor and Linsey Rogers. “We have a huge amount of respect for the people, the beer, and the distribution organization at Block 15, and we can't imagine a better partner. This project has been in the works for quite some time, and we are excited to get our beers back into regular distribution to all of our favorite retailers and customers!”

Collin Schneider, co-owner and roaster at Bespoken Coffee Roasters, added, “We love everything Block 15 does and are excited to be partnering with such an incredible team in serving the PNW! As a locally-minded business that focuses on custom-tailored and carefully produced products, this partnership feels like a natural fit for our coffee and our team.”

While Block 15 Distribution is not currently seeking additional suppliers, area producers who are interested in future consideration can visit: block15.com/distribution-company Accounts interested in carrying offerings from Block 15 Distribution’s product portfolio can reach their sales team at: sales@block15.com