RNDC To Enter New York Market, Partnering With Opici

Republic National Distributing Co. (RNDC) is set to enter the New York market via a partnership with existing New York distributor Opici Family Distributing. The two companies signed a letter of intent to create an equal partnership in New York, expected to launch in the first quarter of 2022.

“Our aligned values along with our proactive approach with our suppliers and customers differentiates this joint venture from our competitors and positions us well to build a great new company together,” said RNDC CEO Tom Cole. “We look forward to dramatically growing our joint business through greater distribution and selection for our customers and consumers as we service the New York market.”

The New York wholesale market is currently dominated by Empire Merchants and Southern Glazer’s. Empire has projected revenues of $1.8 billion this year, according to Shanken’s Impact Newsletter, while Southern Glazer’s New York revenues are projected at $2.1 billion.

RNDC ranks as the second-largest wholesaler in the U.S. overall, with projected 2021 revenues of $12.5 billion. Also this year, the company announced its expansion into Illinois, as well as into five new control states. With New York, it will have a footprint of 38 states plus Washington D.C.

Opici recently sold its Florida distributing business to RNDC for an undisclosed sum, while naming RNDC as the distributor of its import portfolio across Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and South Carolina. In addition to New York, Opici has wholesale operations in five other markets.—Daniel Marsteller

Tagged : Empire Merchants, Opici Family Distributing, RNDC, Southern Glazer's

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