Georgia’s carefully balanced three-tier system streamlines operations to benefit all industry stakeholders. It supports local businesses, creates jobs, protects Georgians, and helps craft brewers thrive.
Georgia uses a three-tier alcohol distribution system that separates producers, distributors, and retailers. This proven structure ensures accountability, promotes fair competition, and creates opportunities for Georgia businesses of all sizes. From local craft breweries and wineries to neighborhood package stores and restaurants, Georgia’s system moves products safely and efficiently from producers to consumers.
Ensures products are sold safely and responsibly, with safeguards in place for consumers.
Helps Georgia-based manufacturers, distributors, and retailers grow and succeed.
Holds businesses and license holders to clear standards and legal requirements.
Supports full-time and part-time employment and generates economic activity across communities throughout the state.
Gives consumers access to a wide variety of products from different producers and suppliers.
Provides a structured system for licensing, compliance, and enforcement to maintain a fair marketplace.
The success of Georgia’s producers, distributors, and retailers is proof: Georgia has the recipe for success.
Georgians employed by alcohol production, distribution, and retail*
Georgia is fourth in the nation in beer production
The number of craft breweries in GA has grown from 10 to 190 since 2011
Craft brewers can legally sell 2 million cans direct to consumer.
A typical wholesaler carries nearly 10,000 different SKUs from suppliers around the world.
Since 2020, the state of Georgia has collected $904 million in excise tax from the sale of alcohol.
The number of Georgia craft distillers has grown from 3 to 57 since 2011.
Distributors deliver alcohol safely to more than 20,000 retail destinations in Georgia.
On a typical night at a distributor warehouse, over 32,000 bottles are picked, pulled, and loaded on trucks for next day delivery.
* Including stores, bars, and restaurants that sell alcohol
Georgia’s alcohol industry isn’t just corporations. It’s entrepreneurs, retailers, drivers, warehouse workers, brewers, vintners, distillers, and restaurant owners. Each of these stakeholders whose livelihoods depend on a fair and competitive marketplace facilitated by Georgia’s three-tier system.
Discover how Georgia’s alcohol distribution system supports consumers, businesses, and communities across the state.