BEER

Funkwerks teaming with 2 other craft breweries in new alliance

Jacob Laxen
The Coloradoan
Prototypes of Funkwerks’ new four-packs sit Tuesday in the taproom at 1900 E. Lincoln Ave. in Fort Collins. Next month the 330-milliliter bottles will hit liquor store shelves.

There's a new power trio in the craft beer world.

Fort Collins brewery Funkwerks, New York's Brooklyn Brewing and San Francisco's 21st Amendment Brewery announced Wednesday a new sales and distribution partnership among the three breweries.

The alliance starts on Jan. 1. Brooklyn Brewery purchased a minority stake in both Funkwerks and 21st Amendment as part of the deal, .

"This takes a lot of the headaches away," said Funkwerks co-founder Brad Lincoln. "As a small niche player, this allows us much better access to the market when we leave Colorado."

The new organization includes 70 salespeople and 90 brand ambassadors covering 38 states — with plans to eventually expand into new markets. 

The three partners will develop annual sales and marketing plans together. They've left the door open for other beverage companies to join the partnership.

Distribution is a concern for many craft brewers around the country, as Budweiser parent company AB-InBev owns multiple distribution channels and has also acquired numerous craft brands.

“The changes in the competitive landscape demand creative new go-to-market strategies,” said Brooklyn Brewing President Robin Ottaway in a statement. “We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have found partners who share our passion for beer, want to remain independent and hold a long-term view.”

Funkwerks owners Brad Lincoln, left, and Gordon Schuck are pictured in their taproom with the Saison Belgian Style Ale.

Funkwerks, which launched in Fort Collins in 2010, currently distributes to seven states after adding North Dakota and South Dakota earlier this year.

The brewery that specializes in Belgian-style saisons currently produces about 6,000 barrels a year but has the capacity to make 16,000 barrels.

Brooklyn Brewery has operated since 1988. It currently distributes to 25 states and 20 countries; 21st Amendment Brewery was founded in 2000 and currently distributes to 25 states.

“Each of us brings something different to the table,” said 21st Amendment President Dave Wilson in a statement. “From the diverse beers we produce to our unique perspectives, origins and brand personalities."

Follow Jacob Laxen on Twitter and Instagram @jacoblaxen.

Sour beer Echoes is poured at Funkwerks brewery on Monday.