Our Story
Our humble beginnings
John and Hazel Oatts
Big Horn Beverage founders.
Big Horn Beverage Company, Inc., a wholesale malt beverage distributor, was incorporated in the state of Wyoming in 1951 by John and Hazel Oatts. Both of their sons, William and Philip came to work in the company and owned and operated it until they passed in 1973 and 1989 respectively.
Since 1989 Philip’s daughters, Vicki Jorgenson and Janice Kane have been the majority owners along with Bob Kawulok, the former general manager, who still has a minority interest. In 2022, Vicki and Janice stepped aside and handed the reins to their sons, Troy Kane and Levi Jorgenson. Vicki Jorgenson, Janice Kane, Bob Kawulok, Troy Kane, Levi Jorgenson, and Nate Jorgenson all serve as board of directors.
Some History
The company initially distributed Sheridan Beer from a local brewery until they went out of business. We then picked up Great Falls Select, Hamm’s, and Olympia. In 1956, Big Horn Beverage became an Anheuser-Busch house. In 2024, BHB acquired Heineken USA and all brands under that umbrella.
Our territory includes the 5 Northeastern counties in the state of Wyoming: Sheridan, Johnson, Campbell, Weston, and Crook County. Over the years we have brought in a variety of different craft beers, waters, coffees, energy drinks, and juices. We continually look for opportunities to bring in quality beverages for our customers.