business
Balcones whiskey production still on hold as owner Diageo eyes corporate cuts
By By MIKE COPELAND at Waco Tribune-Herald
· July 17, 2026
· 1 min read
Waco whiskey maker Balcones Distilling's stills remain cold as its parent company, Diageo, mulls a corporate makeover and job cuts amid sluggish spirits sales in North America and beyond.
Why this matters in The Waco
The halt in production at Balcones Distilling has significant implications for the local economy, as the distillery is a notable employer and contributor to Waco's growing reputation as a hub for craft spirits. With Diageo considering corporate cuts, the future of Balcones' operations in Waco remains uncertain, potentially affecting not only the company's employees but also the local businesses that rely on the distillery's presence. The impact of sluggish spirits sales on Balcones is also a concern for the city's efforts to develop its tourism industry, which has increasingly emphasized the city's craft food and drink scene. As Diageo weighs its options, the city will be watching closely to see how the company's decisions will affect one of Waco's most prominent and beloved local businesses. The outcome could have a lasting impact on the character and economy of the community.
About this story
Original reporting by Waco Tribune-Herald . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Waco Tribune-Herald . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: business ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: Waco Tribune-Herald ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Waco whiskey maker Balcones Distilling's stills remain cold as its parent company, Diageo, mulls a corporate makeover and job cuts amid sluggish spirits sales in North America and beyond.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by Waco Tribune-Herald and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by By MIKE COPELAND at Waco Tribune-Herald. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more business coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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