Queenstown-based Crimson Badger Brewing will now be distributed across New Zealand by Federal Merchants & Co.
The agreement will see Federal Merchants & Co. distribute Crimson Badger’s original Ginger Bear and Dark & Grizzly exclusively into the on- and off-premise channels from August 1, 2023.
Crimson Badger was launched by Canadian Wes McAllister and Australian Sam following a chance meeting at Atlas Beer Cafe in Queenstown.
In 2017 the pair hatched a plan to create an 4% ABV ginger beer named Ginger Bear.
With no prior brewing experience, little starting capital, and juggling full-time jobs, the duo founded Crimson Badger Brewing Limited.
Now employing a team of five, they have also launched The Loose Moose canning company to help fund the capital investment by contracting canning to local breweries.
As well as Ginger Bear, Crimson Badger produces Dark & Grizzly, a 5.8% ABV ginger beer with spiced rum and fresh lime.
Federal Merchants & Co.’s Michael Morton says they love what Wes and the team have done so far with Crimson Badger Brewing.
“This new partnership for our businesses is super exciting and we can’t wait to help them achieve their next phase of growth as we introduce every Kiwi to what those in the deep south already know about their great products, lead of course by iconic Ginger Bear,” he says.
Crimson Badger founder Wesley McAllister says the partnership will help their business improve and open the door to create new products.
“It’s an exciting new chapter and I am thankful for everyone that has supported us along the way. We are eagerly looking forward to what lies ahead.”
Federal Merchants is a locally-owned beverage distributor that has been operating in the New Zealand market for more than 20 years.
How to catch up with The Shout NZ…
Online, updated daily with its own unique content and breaking news.
Our weekly newsletter – free to your inbox! Subscribe here.
We are also on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!
