Kristen Distributing Co

Specialties

Wholesale Beverage Distributor servicing several Central Texas counties with over 200 of the finest beverages in the world. Supplier and Distributor for Boots Beverages, our local Craft Soda brand!

History

Established in 1930.

Ambrose Kristen left Germany headed to the United States in search of a brighter future. Arriving in Galveston, Ambrose was alone with a few tools and his knowledge of wheelrighting. He didn’t speak the language, but Ambrose set up a livery stable in Industry. In 1930 he purchased Bellville Bottling Works and began manufacturing and distributing soft drinks like 7-​Up, and Dr. Pepper. Ambrose renamed the company Kristen Distributing and placed his only son, «Boots» Kristen, at the helm shortly after prohibition’s repeal. Boots expanded into beer distribution with Grand Prize of Galveston. In 1965 Miller Brewing Company rights were acquired. Still, scope of distribution was limited to 2 counties. University of Texas, Cum Laude graduate, Boots’ only son, Mark Kristen, became President in 1980’s expanding distribution to 28 counties. In 2008 John Kristen came aboard as the company’s 4^th generation of Kristen Presidents.

Meet the Business Owner

Mark K.

Business Owner

Mark has become a vital part of the Bryan/​College Station community and is both politically and philanthropically active. Local charities look to him, and the Kristen Distributing Family to fund the good works they do. Mark received the Jeremiah Milbank Society award for his contributions to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Brazos Valley, and the Amigo award for his continuing aid to the Hispanic community. He spearheaded the establishment of the Maroon Prior Service Association to raise funds for student Veterans at Texas A&M. He also supports agricultural education though his sponsorship of county fairs and rodeos. Mark is a top 100 contributor to Texas A&M’s 12^th Man Foundation and supplies time and money to countless other charitable organizations. Under Mark’s guidance Kristen Distributing Company was awarded the Coors President’s Awards in ’01 & ’02 and the Founder’s Award in ’02