Austin-based Twin Liquors has continued to grow , opening more than 20 new locations since we covered the Guild ’ s 70th anniversary in 2018 .
“ In the past several years , we have made sure to have a good succession plan and to foster stability , so that the Guild model remains relevant and focused on the needs of independent retailers in the evolving business environment .”
– David Jabour , President of Twin Liquors in Texas
“ In the ‘ 70s , ‘ 80s and ‘ 90s , with the consolidation of suppliers and wholesalers , it changed what it meant to be a retailer ,” says Charles Sonnenberg , Owner , Frugal MacDoogal in Nashville . “ And that continues now , with our trying times with Covid .”
“ The Guild has gone through a metamorphosis ,” Sonnenberg adds . “ Thankfully , we now have women members , along with fourth-generation members .”
The Covid-19 pandemic required rapid ecommerce adaptation — now a source of strength for the Guild .
“ Since joining the Guild , the biggest change has been embracing technology ,” says Gary Fisch , Founder and CEO , Gary ' s Wine and Marketplace . “ Guild members are among the most progressive wine and spirits retailers in the country as it relates to technological innovation . Whether it ’ s sharing ideas for preferred technology vendors , or sharing strategies for engaging with customers through today ’ s social media platforms , the idea sharing that occurs between Guild members is invaluable .” This is echoed by many members in light of modern market developments . “ It ’ s a totally different business environment today ,” says Sonnenberg . “ We have consolidation of global suppliers , further consolidation of wholesalers , blurring lines between types of alcohol , wholesalers seeing their roles become primarily distro , online selling where there ’ s no longer borders or boundaries , nontraditional merchants online creating a new environment , a national marketplace forming online — given all this , it ’ s incumbent upon independent retailers to be fully informed .”
Another area where the Guild has grown is its transformation into a buying group . This allows the collective members to purchase in quantities that otherwise would be impossible for an independent retailer .
“ The Wine & Spirits Guild has always helped Gary ’ s source unique brand opportunities that would not be obtainable otherwise ,” says Fisch . “ This allows family-owned businesses
12 Beverage Dynamics • January 2023 www . beveragedynamics . com