May 30, 2025 – Arlington Capital Advisors (“Arlington”) is pleased to announce that it served as the exclusive financial advisor to Stone Distributing Company (“SDC”) in its acquisition by Sunset Distributing (“Sunset”), a subsidiary of Hand Family Companies (“HFC”).
SDC is one of Southern California’s most dynamic beverage distributors with a strong portfolio of craft beer, FMBs, RTDs, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. The move positions HFC, which already boasts a multi-state presence with distributorships in Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, to significantly enhance service for beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverage suppliers and customers in the region.
“We are thrilled to join the Hand Family Companies and align with their rich legacy as a family-owned organization. By combining the market strength and experience of SDC and Classic with the Hand Family’s drive to succeed in Southern California, Sunset Distributing is poised to create immense value and unlock exciting opportunities for the beverage industry for years to come.” – Brian Fried, General Manager of SDC.
“We were fortunate to have the opportunity to work with the ACA team on the initial acquisition and the exit of our investment in the Stone Brewing and Stone Distributing businesses and greatly benefitted from their collaborative approach and creativity.” – Jon Marshall, Partner at VMG said
Ryan Lake, Managing Director at Arlington Capital Advisors, advisor to SDC said, “It has been a real honor to work with the SDC team on this transaction. SDC is a wonderfully unique business and a pioneer of independent distribution in one of the most exciting and dynamic beverage markets in the world. It is fitting that the Company has found a new home with JR and his innovative team at HFC.”
This transaction marks a significant expansion for HFC, strengthening its route-to-market capabilities in Southern California and furthering its national growth strategy.
About Stone Distributing Company
Stone Distributing Company was founded in 1999 as a subsidiary of the Stone Brewing Company, to establish a route to market for the Stone brand in Southern California. In the last 26 years, Stone Distributing Company has grown to become one of Southern California’s largest and most dynamic beverage distributors. In 2022, Stone Distributing Company became a fully independent distribution company, marking a new chapter of growth across diversified emerging beverage categories in Southern California. With a deep portfolio spanning craft beer, FMBs, RTDs, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages, SDC brings the very best of the beverage world to Southern California customers and consumers.
About Arlington Capital Advisors
Arlington Capital Advisors is a boutique investment bank that specializes in providing businesses in the consumer and distribution sectors with advisory services. Arlington focuses on sell-side and buy-side mergers and acquisitions, sourcing growth capital and other capital-centric strategic alternatives for businesses. Securities offered through its affiliate, Arlington Capital Services, member FINRA/SIPC.
About Hand Family Companies Hand Family Companies, founded in 1949 by Raymond C. Hand, is one of the nation’s premier beverage distributors, known for its strong partnerships and a portfolio that spans multiple states and top-tier brands. HFC is committed to innovation, service, and excellence in all markets it serves.
Stone Distributing Co.
