NBWA’ s 2025 Annual Convention Highlights Beer’ s Durability
by KRYSTINA SKIBO
Beer volumes are top of mind for almost everyone in the beverage alcohol industry. What began several years ago as a focus on declining volume sales of traditional beer has morphed into a slowdown in overall alcohol sales.
Craig Purser, president and CEO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association( NBWA), addressed this growing concern at the beginning of the organization’ s 88th Annual Convention in Las Vegas.
Purser’ s key takeaway? Data shows that consumers are hungry to get out and socialize. And the best way to do that is over a beer.
“ We must broaden beer’ s appeal to consumers, we must celebrate beer’ s role in social gatherings, and we must support this industry that we all love and that is an integral part of the American experience,” Purser said during the Opening General Session.“ I know that together, we will continue to put the work in to win, to persevere and to keep this industry strong for generations to come.”
ADAPTING TO CHANGE
NBWA’ s 2025 Convention featured a variety of educational sessions and workshops to equip wholesalers with the right tools to survive and thrive during these difficult times. Between adapting to changing consumer preferences, accepting AI’ s role in the warehouse and keeping tabs on where infused beverages are headed, this year’ s event had a lot to offer.
With 2,800 beer distributors and beverage professionals in attendance, NBWA’ s 88th Annual Convention featured three separate showrooms packed with over 250 booths featuring the latest in both alcohol and infused beverages.
With 2,800 beer distributors and beverage professionals in attendance, alongside the first-ever Innovation Showcase, NBWA underscored the durability of the beer industry while looking ahead with optimism and energy.
“ Beer distributors are doing the work, making the investment and adapting to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Purser during the Opening General Session.“ We all have to adjust to change, whether technology, social norms or consumer preferences. And the good news is, being mindful and nimble in the face of changing dynamics is what distributors do every day.”
David Williams, president, Bump Williams Consulting and JB Shireman, director, Arlington Capital Advisors highlighted the importance of adapting in their educational seminar, Evolve or www. beveragewholesaler. com Winter 2025 • Bevearge Wholesaler 15