Columbia Distributing announced that it has entered into a letter of intent (LOI) to acquire a stake in Hayden Beverage Company, a family-owned beverage distributor based in Idaho. The proposed investment is designed to expand the companies’ Pacific Northwest beverage platform across Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
The partnership brings together two established distributors with longstanding supplier relationships, complementary product portfolios, and a shared focus on customer service, execution, and local market expertise. Columbia and Hayden have maintained a strong working relationship for years, including Hayden’s acquisition of Scout Distribution-Idaho in 2025.
As part of the proposed transaction, Hayden’s ownership group will also take an indirect ownership interest in Columbia Distributing. The structure is intended to align long-term priorities while supporting continued growth throughout the region.
The investment follows several strategic initiatives by both organizations. Hayden has acquired three wine distributors over the last two years and recently completed the purchase of RNDC’s equity interest in its Idaho joint venture. Columbia separately announced an agreement involving the acquisition of certain RNDC wine and spirits supplier rights in Oregon and Washington, along with related assets in Alaska. Together, these transactions are expected to strengthen a scaled total beverage distribution platform throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Both companies emphasized that there will be no immediate changes to daily operations. Existing leadership teams, company brands, and licenses will remain in place, and the partnership is not expected to result in layoffs or employer changes.
Founded in 1935, Columbia Distributing serves more than 24,000 retail customers across Oregon and Washington through a workforce of approximately 2,800 employees. With its planned expansion into Alaska, the company expects to add roughly 1,125 customer accounts and significantly broaden its geographic footprint.
Hayden Beverage, founded in 1970 and acquired by Dodds Hayden in 2006, is a leading Idaho-based beverage distributor serving customers throughout the state. The company operates a multi-division model covering wine, beer, cider, non-alcoholic beverages, and emerging beverage categories.
KEY QUOTES:
“We’ve always worked well with Columbia, sharing information, solving problems, and pushing each other. It feels like we are finally making an informal partnership a formal one. Our mission is to be the best executing distributor in the Northwest, and Columbia has always been our benchmark. This partnership combines a ton of expertise, capability, and strong cultures.”
Dodds Hayden, Owner/Chairman, Hayden Beverage
“This is an exciting step for Columbia, Hayden, and our shared vision for total beverage distribution in the Pacific Northwest. Hayden has built an exceptional business in Idaho with strong supplier relationships, a talented team, and a proven commitment to execution. Together, we are strengthening a true regional platform while maintaining the local relationships that drive long-term success.”
Chris Steffanci, President and CEO, Columbia Distributing
