06/09/2026
Cleveland Whiskey Acquires Majority Interest in SEEKERS Bourbon Brand
Transaction expands Cleveland Whiskey’s growing portfolio and supports broader domestic and international expansion efforts
CLEVELAND, Ohio, June 09, 2026 — Cleveland Whiskey announced today that it has acquired a majority interest in the SEEKERS bourbon brand and related assets from Sandusky-based Everwild Spirits for an undisclosed amount. The transaction strengthens Cleveland Whiskey’s presence within Ohio’s craft spirits industry while positioning the acquired portfolio for broader domestic and international distribution.
The acquisition includes the award-winning SEEKERS bourbon lineup, existing barrel inventory, and additional bourbon concepts currently under development. Moving forward, Cleveland Whiskey will assume responsibility for production, bottling, marketing, distribution, and sales. Everwild Spirits will retain a minority ownership interest, and the two companies plan to co-develop and launch two additional bourbon brands over the next 24 to 36 months.
Developed into a respected emerging brand with a loyal following across Northern Ohio, SEEKERS is known for its traditionally aged portfolio and distinctive mash bills. Utilizing Cleveland Whiskey’s statewide distribution network, the partnership aims to significantly scale SEEKERS’ retail and restaurant footprint.
“This was a natural fit for us,” said Tom Lix, founder and CEO of Cleveland Whiskey. “SEEKERS has built a strong identity, loyal customer base, and exceptional product portfolio. We saw an opportunity to bring additional scale, production capabilities, and distribution support behind the brand while preserving the authenticity and quality that made it resonate in the first place. As Cleveland Whiskey continues expanding both domestically and internationally, this acquisition represents another step in building a broader portfolio of distinctive American whiskey brands.”
Everwild Spirits founder Rick Lynch will continue to help guide the brands in a strategic advisory role following the transaction.
“We’re incredibly proud of what Everwild and SEEKERS have become, and deeply grateful for the support we’ve received throughout Northern Ohio from customers, retailers, and restaurants who believed in us from the beginning,” said Lynch. “Cleveland Whiskey has the infrastructure, production capabilities, and distribution network to take SEEKERS to the next level. We’re excited to expand SEEKERS across Ohio and continue developing distinctive new bourbon brands together in the years ahead.”
Retailers, restaurants, bars, and distribution partners interested in carrying SEEKERS Bourbon are encouraged to contact Cleveland Whiskey for additional information regarding availability and distribution opportunities.
About Cleveland Whiskey
Cleveland Whiskey is a whiskey and technology company focused on innovation in spirits production, maturation, and finishing. Known for its proprietary techniques and award-winning bourbons and whiskeys, the company distributes products across the United States and internationally while continuing to expand its portfolio and production capabilities.
About Everwild Spirits
Founded in Sandusky, Ohio, Everwild Spirits is an independent spirits company focused on developing distinctive American whiskey brands rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and strong regional identity. Best known for its award-winning SEEKERS Bourbon portfolio, Everwild developed a loyal following throughout Northern Ohio through its focus on traditionally aged bourbon, distinctive mash bill development, and thoughtfully crafted premium whiskey expressions.
