The News
Frederick Wildman & Sons announced a national distribution transition with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits beginning May 1, 2026. Southern Glazer’s will distribute Cantine Riunite, Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV), and strategic import brands across multiple U.S. markets under a multi-year agreement. The companies have a long-standing relationship focused on scale, investment, and brand building.
Frederick Wildman & Sons has signed a multi‑year distribution agreement with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (SGW) that takes effect on May 1, 2026. The deal gives SGW national control over Wildman’s core offerings—including Cantine Riunite, GIV and other imported labels—in 47 U.S. markets plus Canada.
The U.S. wine market was worth roughly $84.5 billion in 2024. Off‑premise sales accounted for about 68 % of that figure—nearly $57 billion moving through wholesalers such as SGW, per IBISWorld and Nielsen Retail Measurement. Import growth lagged only slightly, with imported wine growing a modest 0.8 % year over year in 2025, according to Nielsen.
Wildman ships over 2 million cases annually, but its national coverage has been limited, concentrating volume in a handful of accounts. The new partnership positions Wildman to reach the larger swaths of off‑premise demand. SGW’s reach across 47 states and Canada already supplies more than one‑fifth of U.S. wine volume, with California, Illinois and Pennsylvania together accounting for over 22 % of national sales per Beverage Information Group data.
This partnership aims to broaden sell‑through and stabilize depletions. Distributors gain high‑volume legacy brands to fill gaps in their lineups; retailers and bars can showcase a well‑known Italian label with strong consumer appeal while benefiting from SGW’s market data. Wildman has ceded control of its own distribution network to SGW, who already owns the logistics and sales force that will move the portfolio.
Retailers can leverage Wildman’s “authentic Italian terroir” narrative as a selling point on shelves and menus, recognizing that volume gains remain incremental amid the flat 0.8 % YoY growth in imported wine. Bar operators can emphasize Wildman’s heritage and craftsmanship to differentiate their offerings, ensuring consistent supply through SGW’s established network.
Original Press Release
NEW YORK, NY, April 16, 2026 — Frederick Wildman & Sons, a leading importer and marketer of fine wines and specialty spirits, announced today a national distribution transition that expands its alignment with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Southern Glazer’s), the world’s preeminent distributor of beverage alcohol.
Beginning May 1, 2026, Southern Glazer’s will assume distribution for Frederick Wildman & Sons’ Cantine Riunite, Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV), and strategic national import brands across multiple U.S. markets, under a multi-year agreement. The move further strengthens the companies’ longstanding relationship and reflects a shared focus on scale, investment, and brand building.
“This transition represents a strategic step forward for our business and our supplier partners and an important strategic milestone for Frederick Wildman & Sons,” said Matt Munn, President & COO, Frederick Wildman & Sons. “Southern Glazer’s national reach, category expertise, and proven ability to support brands at scale make them a strong partner as we continue to invest in the future of our portfolio.”
Southern Glazer’s will accelerate brand growth through its unmatched national infrastructure, leveraging advanced data analytics, national accounts leadership, and best-in-class execution across both on- and off-premise channels.
“We are pleased to broaden our relationship with Frederick Wildman & Sons through this national agreement,” said Cindy Leonard, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Fine Wine, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. “We look forward to bolstering these market-leading brands and working closely with the Wildman team to drive continued growth in key markets.”
Additional details related to market coverage and brand rollout will be communicated directly to trade partners.
Sources consulted (web research):
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- Frederick Wildman Sons And Sgws Enter Launch Expanding Partnership In…
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Source: BevNET