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Ohio Senator Andrew Brenner Introduces Alcohol Franchise Law Reform Bill In

Ohio Breweries Reaffirm Support for Franchise Law Modernization

New Ohio Senate legislation would update antiquated law governing beer distribution contracts.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — This week, Senator Andrew Brenner introduced S.B. 23, a bill to modernize the Ohio Alcoholic Beverages Franchise Act and support small businesses across the state. Enacted in 1974, Ohio’s franchise law has bestowed protected and favored status on large, powerful wholesale beer distributors in their contracts with the small and independent breweries that supply them. The Brewers Freedom Alliance urges Ohio lawmakers to support S.B. 23 to reform this antiquated law that punishes small businesses.

Under the terms of the 1974 franchise law, beer distribution contracts are effectively unbreakable, a feature that the nearly 200 small, regional distributors of the time had written to protect them from the undue influence of massive brewing companies. More than five decades of consolidation have made the few dozen remaining distributors exponentially larger and more powerful. They now abuse the 50-year-old franchise law to exert leverage over small and independent brewers — including the more than 440 doing business in Ohio — locking them into the same permanent distribution contracts they have with the industry giants.

“Since 1974, the state of Ohio has held its thumb on the scale in favor of beer distributors and to the detriment of independent breweries due to franchise law,” says Mary MacDonald, executive director of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association. “Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle recognize that franchise law is anticompetitive and actively harmful to small businesses. We appreciate Senator Brenner’s continued action on behalf of Ohio’s small and independent breweries, and we urge the General Assembly to support reasonable, common sense reform of this outdated law.”

S.B. 23 would exempt small and independent breweries from the 1974 franchise law, allowing them to more easily terminate agreements with wholesale beer and wine distributors, and enabling them to pursue new partnerships that align with their growth and distribution goals.

“This legislation is about leveling the playing field for Ohio’s small craft brewers,” said Senator Brenner. “These businesses are a vital part of our local economy, creating jobs and producing high quality products. By reducing the barriers to changing distribution contracts, we’re giving them the tools they need to grow, innovate and reach more customers across the state.”

Studies by the Buckeye Institute, the U.S. Treasury Department and the Brewers Association have all found franchise laws to be anticompetitive and harmful to the growth potential of small and independent breweries.

“This is a common sense solution that supports entrepreneurship and strengthens Ohio’s reputation as a leader in craft brewing,” added Senator Brenner. “It’s about fostering innovation and allowing our small brewers to thrive.”

 
Founded in 2007, the Ohio Craft Brewers Association is a nonprofit guild that exists to promote, preserve and unify Ohio’s craft brewing industry. We aspire to be recognized as the industry leader at both state and national levels for preserving the art of making high-quality, unique craft beer; to serve as the unified voice for craft brewers across the state; to advocate on behalf of the Ohio craft beer industry; to contribute to systemic, local community development by driving economic and job growth, while creating experiences that bring people together; to promote safe, responsible enjoyment of Ohio craft beer; and to serve as a beacon for local production and manufacturing through craft beer, resulting in diverse choices for consumers.

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Tom Holland's BERO Lands on Target Shelves Making Premium Non-Alcoholic Beer Even More Accessible

The Beer That Does Both Comes to Target Stores Across the U.S.

NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BERO, the premium non-alcoholic beer founded by Tom Holland, is now available at most Target stores nationwide, bringing an elevated, high-quality offering to drinkers everywhere. The rollout marks a milestone in the brand's rapid rise and signals a continued shift in the category as non-alcoholic beer takes center stage next to its alcoholic counterpart in mainstream retail. BERO's partnership with Target represents more than an expanded retail footprint—it embodies an alignment of shared values. Known for curating products that resonate with its customers, Target provides the ideal platform to connect with consumers who prioritize exceptional taste and intentional choices. Together, BERO and Target are elevating the shopper experience, meeting drinkers where they are and providing greater access to an extraordinary beverage crafted for all occasions. "BERO's official release at Target is a defining moment for us," says Tom Holland. "From the beginning, one of our biggest goals has been to align with an iconic retailer like Target, who time and time again acts as an incredible launchpad for emerging brands. Our beer sitting on the shelves of a partner that understands our brand, leans into creativity, and shares our commitment to quality, feels like a massive step forward. I'm thrilled to see BERO continuing to grow and reach even more people with the great-tasting beer they deserve." Since its debut, consumers have shown a deep enthusiasm for BERO's authentic founding story and standout flavor. Inspired by Holland's UK roots and crafted by the finest brewers in America, BERO celebrates the best of beer culture while honoring a modern, balanced lifestyle. John Herman, CEO and co-founder of BERO, adds, "We have heard one loud and clear request from consumers since launch: When can we find BERO in retail? We could not be happier than to answer this call with an incredible team and partner like Target. Seeing the shared vision for the category and passion around our brand has been inspiring and we are so excited to see this dream partnership come to life." "Non-alcoholic beverage has been a growth category at Target for five years now and I can't wait for shoppers to try the newest addition to our assortment: Tom Holland's BERO," said John Conlin, Senior Vice President of Merchandising, Food and Beverage at Target. "This is an exciting brand, with amazing flavors, and great prices. Consumer preferences are changing and I'm incredibly proud of the way our team and the BERO team have worked together to give drinkers everywhere another option for enjoying time with friends or unwinding at the end of the day." As consumers' drinking repertoire becomes increasingly diverse and flexible, BERO's move into Target showcases a shared vision for category evolution and the tremendous void of a premium, aspirational offering in the existing set. Further, it highlights the need for those products to be easily accessible at everyday retail locations. BERO offers both single flavor 6-packs starting at $11.99 and a Target-exclusive variety 12-pack at $21.99. Recently recognized on The Lead's "Ones to Watch" List, BERO's growing presence across the U.S. and in major retail chains underscores its commitment to becoming the gold standard for beer. To learn more about BERO, visit BERObrewing.com, follow @berobrewing on Instagram and TikTok, and subscribe to the brand's email newsletter for updates and exclusive content. About BERO Born in London, crafted in America, and enjoyed worldwide, BERO is the most premium non-alcoholic beer on the market and is co-created by Tom Holland and John Herman for those who never settle. With supreme ingredients and remarkable taste, our beer makes sure nothing gets in the way of savoring every moment. Because you're already chasing a life enriched – we're simply here to make it exceptional. Expect Nothing Less.