Two brewing companies based in the capital city have collaborated to create a holding company in hopes of strengthening the craft beer industry in the Palmetto State.
Columbia Craft Brewing Company, a micro-brewery and taproom on Columbia's Greene Street, and Peak Drift Brewing Company, which operates a production brewery on Columbia's North Main Street, are combining under Craft Brew Inc., which will act as the parent company for the two businesses.
Representatives from both companies said the goal of the joint venture is to establish a holding company of multiple brands that will be a one-stop shop for craft breweries and beverage companies that want to directly print their cans in-house, scale up production, and utilize resources within a family of brands.
“Peak Drift is forming strategic partnerships for long-term success,” says Jordan Styles, owner and chief executive officer of Peak Drift. “We are committed to industry collaboration and the creation of Craft Brew Inc. will help cultivate the security of craft beer in South Carolina.”
While the company will initially service the two brands, there are plans to add more breweries into the alliance with the focus on keeping a brand’s unique identity while simultaneously growing the Craft Brew Inc. name corporately.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of the Craft Brew Inc. family and we look forward to growing our footprint and creating amazing products for craft beer enthusiasts everywhere,” says Richard Strauss, former managing member of Columbia Craft. “This partnership will further develop the region and industry by continuing to position South Carolina as a leader in producing award-winning craft beer.”
The partnership between Peak Drift and Columbia Craft started in 2023 when Peak Drat started brewing select Columbia Craft beer at its Columbia production facility.
Currently, Craft Brew Inc. distributes products state-wide in South Carolina and exports to the United Kingdom.
Columbia Craft Brewing Company was founded in 2017 and has a lineup of ales, lagers, hazy IPAs, sours, and barrel-aged beers. Peak Drift Brewing Company was founded in 2021 and features high-quality craft beers, hard seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages inspired by the landscapes of the Southeast region.
