In an Atlanta Journal-Constitution op-ed (subscription required), Georgia Beer Wholesalers Association Executive Director Martin Smith wrote:

“Distributors invest hundreds of thousands of dollars to market individual craft beers. They fight for shelf space on behalf of new breweries and provide an immediate network for safe delivery across our state. Because they are independently owned and deliver multiple brands at once, distributors ensure a variety of brand choices for Georgia’s consumers while saving hours of labor time for retail and restaurant partners. All while ensuring various alcohol taxes are paid to state and local licensing authorities.”