Expanding distribution to Oregon and Southwest Washington
About three years ago, we told you about a successful lawsuit that challenged Oregon’s alcohol distribution laws. In short, Oregon prohibited out-of-state breweries from self-distributing beer. This required breweries to work with a distributor to sell beer in Oregon, a cost that is prohibitive for most craft breweries. As many non-Oregon breweries lamented, it felt like a wall had been built around the state, protecting breweries from out-of-state competition. Read more about that lawsuit and the outcome here.
Seattle’s Fair Isle Brewing is taking advantage of this change in state law and is set to resume distributing beer in Oregon. In its early days, Fair Isle Brewing distributed some beer in Oregon. Here is the press release about this development, which also includes news about expanded distribution in Southwest Washington.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fair Isle Brewing Returns to Oregon, Expands Distribution to Southwest Washington
SEATTLE, WA — April 2026 — Fair Isle Brewing announces its return to Oregon through self-distribution, alongside an expansion into Southwest Washington, including Vancouver. Together, these moves mark a broader reestablishment of the brewery’s presence in the greater Portland region.
After previously distributing in Oregon in its early years, Fair Isle is reentering the market with a direct and intentional approach—focused on building close relationships with accounts and sharing its mixed-culture farmhouse beers in a hands-on way. The addition of Southwest Washington further reflects the brewery’s commitment to thoughtful, place-driven growth across the Pacific Northwest.
Leading the sales effort is Nick Simmons, a former Fair Isle brewer who now lives in Portland. In his role, Simmons will oversee sales and distribution across Oregon and Southwest Washington, reconnecting the brewery with longtime supporters while building new relationships throughout the region.
“We’ve always felt a strong connection to this part of the Northwest—many of the ingredients that shape our beers are grown in Oregon,” said the team at Fair Isle Brewing. “Returning with Nick Simmons who knows our beers—and expanding just across the river into Washington—allows us to grow and work closely with the people and places that make this region so special.”
To mark the launch, Fair Isle will be heading down to Portland, visiting accounts and hanging out as they pour some beers on tap. Stop by the Tulip Shop Tavern on April 8th and connect with the team.
Accounts in Oregon and Southwest Washington interested in carrying Fair Isle beers can reach out at ORsales@fairislebrewing.com to place orders or connect directly with the brewery.
This return and expansion mark a new chapter for Fair Isle—one shaped by years of growth, a deepened commitment to local agriculture, and a desire to engage more directly with the communities that support its work.
For more information, visit fairislebrewing.com or follow along on Instagram @fairislebrewing.
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