Beverage Dynamics has recognized outstanding retailers since 1996 with our Retailers of the Year awards , which became the Top 100 Retailers awards in 2019 . Many Wine & Spirits Guild members have been honored over the years , as indicated with Retailer of the Year and Top 100 logos in the company listings later in this story .
Starting in 2019 , the Beverage Alcohol Retailers Conference has included a Top 100 Retailers banquet , where winners are announced . Here ’ s a look at some of the Guild members who have attended and accepted their award in person .
Todd Randall of Randall ’ s ( bottom right ) was the opening keynote speaker at the 2022 Beverage Alcohol Retailers Conference in Orlando , answering questions from Beverage Dynamics VP Jeremy Nedelka and attendees . Guild members Marques Warren of Downtown Spirits in Seattle ( top center ) and Marty Holland of The Party Source in Bellevue , KY ( top right ) spoke during a retailer panel at the 2022 Beverage Alcohol Retailers Conference , alongside Josh Hammond of Buster ’ s in Memphis .
Members from Twin Liquors , Randall ’ s , The Party Source , Jacob Liquor Exchange , M & R Liquors , Gary ’ s Wine & Marketplace and Kreston ’ s celebrate their Top 100 Retailers awards in 2022 .
Members from Kreston ’ s , Wilbur ’ s , Bay Ridge and Gary ’ s joined other retailers in celebrating Twin Liquors ’ Top 100 Retailer of the Year win in 2019 .
“ The executive board is now mostly second-generation Guild members , and it is amazing to see the third and fourth generations making their first presentations ,” says Herman , Incoming President . “ The future of the Guild is bright , as the next generations start to lead their family businesses , while bringing fresh ideas to both their stores and the Guild .” The outgoing President agrees . “ The Guild has an exceptional bench of strength to lead it into the future ,” Jabour says . “ 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 .”
“ I see the Guild continuing to survive the test of time ,” Jabour continues . “ With 75 years of amazing history , the Guild must continue to focus on what has made it work . We all recognize the value of making each other better . The uncertainty in the business world does not slow down ; it only intensifies . That ’ s why it ’ s important that this group continues to communicate . And it ’ s important for those who dedicate their time and efforts to the Guild to know that they are dedicating their commitment to the future of independent retail .” BD
16 Beverage Dynamics • January 2023 www . beveragedynamics . com