THE HISTORY OF CAROLINA BEER
Tradition & Passion
Carolina Beer Co., Inc., under Marion F. “Mack” Stewart, began distribution of beer in Anderson, South Carolina, in 1941.
Before CBC was formed, Mack’s business was called Carolina Produce Co. and distributed produce to the local area. One day, a gentleman from Schlitz Brewing Co. approached Mack about distributing Schlitz Beer along with his lettuce and other products. Mack said, “Yes!” and Carolina Beer Co., Inc. was quickly formed. His first brands were Schlitz, Hudepohl, and Canadian Ace. Along the way, Mack distributed mainly Schlitz Brands until 1982, when he purchased Barton Grocery, wholesalers of Pabst products.
In April 1983, CBC was awarded the distribution rights to Coors Brewing Company, a very important appointment for the future growth of CBC. Mack’s son-in-law, Larry Lyles, Jr., was instrumental in gaining these rights and CBC was off and running. After Mack passed away in June 1983, his daughter Marian and son-in-law Larry became wholesalers and have continued the family business since.
A long-time employee and grandson of Mr. Mack, Larry Lyles III began full time in 1997 after a 2-year stint working for Coors Brewing Co. in Golden, Colorado, and Boulder Beer. Larry Lyles III is now the president of CBC and shares ownership with Larry Lyles, Jr. and Marian. CBC continues to grow as a company and still keeps the traditions and integrity of Mack’s business alive in their everyday operations.
