EPISODE · Aug 4, 2025 · 16 MIN
The Corning & Company Craft Beverage Platform
from Still Building - The Business of Craft Spirits · host Samuel D. Long
Corning Company is revolutionizing the craft spirits industry by solving major distribution challenges that prevent small, independent distilleries from reaching consumers. Their innovative platform serves as a vital bridge connecting craft brands with consumers, retailers, and distributors through an approach rooted in their remarkable 140-year history as America's largest pre-Prohibition whiskey producer.• Only 1.6% of craft distillers control 54% of the craft volume, while 2,400+ smaller brands struggle for just 11% of the market• The three-tier system legally mandates producers sell to distributors, who then sell to retailers, before products can reach consumers• Top three wholesalers dominate regional distribution with 60-70% market share, imposing steep margins and restrictive contracts• Corning Company was founded in 1880 and survived devastating fires, including a "firestorm of burning whiskey"• Their Integrated Route to Market enables rapid fulfillment in days versus traditional distributors' weeks or months• The pay-as-you-go model shifts capital-intensive costs from brand owners to Corning• On-site production uses a 3,000-gallon Scottish still with comprehensive compliance management• Modern consumers follow a "less but better" approach with 67% willing to pay more for premium quality• Their omni-channel strategy includes point-of-sale storytelling, tastings, and state-compliant DTC shipping• Future expansion plans will establish multi-region fulfillment across key states nationwideMore information about Corning & Company is available at https://www.corningandcompany.com
What this episode covers
Corning Company is revolutionizing the craft spirits industry by solving major distribution challenges that prevent small, independent distilleries from reaching consumers. Their innovative platform serves as a vital bridge connecting craft brands with consumers, retailers, and distributors through an approach rooted in their remarkable 140-year history as America's largest pre-Prohibition whiskey producer. • Only 1.6% of craft distillers control 54% of the craft volume, while 2,400+ smaller...
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The Corning & Company Craft Beverage Platform
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