by KRYSTINA SKIBO

Everything from growing the ingredients needed for fermentation, manufacturing and packaging to fuel used to ship these products around the world all contributes to climate change. However, many wholesalers and suppliers are implementing sustainable practices to help offset their carbon footprint.

Republic National Distributing Company( RNDC), for example, has a sustainability plan in place that the company is actively working on to reduce its carbon footprint. The plan includes four pillars:

1. Sustainable Fleet and Electrification Identification Opportunities to strategically transition to a more sustainable fleet and identify innovative solutions for cleaner fuel.

2. Renewable Energy and Facility Exploration solutions to reduce energy demand and diversify the energy supply to clean sources of energy that have a lower environmental impact.

3. Circular Economy and Waste Commitment to sustainable waste management and protection of natural resources by reducing, recycling and reusing.

4. Supply Chain Engagement and Partnering with suppliers and customers to understand indirect emissions better and identify ways to reduce supply chain emissions.

In addition to these steps, RNDC’ s HR manager of supplier excellence and growth and eCommerce Camille Davis says the company also aims to actively contribute to industry-wide sustainability conversations by sharing the knowledge they’ ve gained on their sustainability journey.

“ Recently, we participated in a panel discussion led by the International Wineries for Climate Action, where we had the opportunity to share insights and learn from others in the industry,” she says.

Partnering with suppliers is very beneficial to RNDC’ s employees, teaching them what it means to be a sustainable brand.“ We regularly invite guest speakers to share their expertise and experiences related to sustainability, certifications

RNDC is actively working on transitioning to a more sustainable fleet and identifying innovative solutions for cleaner fuel.

and production processes. This ensures our associates understand what differentiates these brands on shelves and menus,” notes Davis.

MOVING TOWARDS E-FLEETS

Shifting towards electric fleets provides a plethora of benefits to wholesalers aside from just reducing their carbon footprint. It also helps offset shipment costs.

Mike Bratcher, vice president, operational transformation, Southern Glazer’ s Wine & Spirits, suggests that optimizing delivery operations helps distributors better align with current

32 Beverage Wholesaler • Summer 2025 www. beveragewholesaler. com