// EDITOR ’ S NOTE

Beverage Group Vice President Jeremy Nedelka Tel : 763-383-4413 email : jnedelka @ epgacceleration . com

Trade Managing Editor Krystina Skibo Tel : 763-383- 4419 email : kskibo @ epgacceleration . com

Editor , Off-Premise Kyle Swartz Tel : 763-383-4447 email : kswartz @ epgacceleration . com

Editor , On-Premise Melissa Dowling Tel : 763-383-4442 email : mdowling @ epgacceleration . com

Contributing Editors Andrew Kaplan , Kelly Magyarics

National Account Director Debbie Rittenberg Tel : 763-383-4455 drittenberg @ epgacceleration . com

Marketing and Engagement Sales Manager Jamie Boldt Tel : 763-383-4456 jboldt @ epgacceleration . com

Associate Managing Art Director Nicole Siewert

Sales / Traffic Coordinator Kurt Eisinger Tel : 763-383-4420 keisinger @ epgmediallc . com

Senior Product Manager , Data & Insights Marina Velez Tel : 763-383-4453 email : mvelez @ epgacceleration . com

LIST RENTAL Kris Grauer email : kgrauer @ npsmediagroup . com Tel : 203-822-7933

REPRINTS For more information on e-prints or reprints from Beverage Wholesaler magazine , visit https :// epgacceleration . com / marketing-services / and contact us today or email us at info @ epgacceleration . com

AS THE NEW EDITOR for Beverage Wholesaler , I ’ m very excited to continue to bring the latest alcohol trends and news to the community . In this issue , we have a plethora of interesting trends to note in the vodka , whiskey , and sparkling wine categories , among others . One notable movement I am seeing take flight is the zero-proof alcohol space . The brands that I have talked to believe this will continue to be a revenue-driver , as the younger generations are choosing healthier beverage options .

We also see some significant trends from our Beer Growth Brands winners that are helping them rake in sales . Consumers seeking better-for-you beers keep Stella Artois top of mind , and Modelo Especial continues to appeal to those looking for authentic brands and experiences . Twisted Tea ’ s motto is to make sure their beverages are available wherever consumers are , from grocery stores to convenience stores to liquor stores , and Samuel Adams is regularly concocting new craft beers to keep their brand in the spotlight .

There is a lot we can learn from these companies in terms of keeping consumers interested and hopping on the bandwagon of the latest trends . We all know the only way to remain on the path of success is to keep innovating and listening to what drinkers want – and that is exactly what these brands are doing .

Another significant trend making waves in the industry is the rise of cannabis-infused beverages . As more states continue to legalize marijuana , cannabis brands are making their debut with new and exciting products , including infused beverages . This movement is blending in with consumers choosing healthier drink options , causing more businesses to hop on this trend bandwagon .

Keep an open mind and possibly even take some notes as you flip through our fall issue to see what ’ s working for brands , what ’ s not , and what ’ s top of mind for consumers . I will most certainly be taking my own notes as I continue to chat with brands about their latest debuts and secrets for success to learn all I can about this intriguing industry .

Sr VP / Audience Development Joanne Juda-Prainito Operations Director Bernadette Wohlman CEO Marion Minor

BRAND ACCELERATION

Beverage Wholesaler is published by EPG Brand Acceleration Editorial and executive offices at 10405 6th Ave N , Suite 210 , Minneapolis 55441 Telephone : 763-383-4400 Fax : 763-383-4499

Krystina Skibo Trade Managing Editor

Fall 2023 • Beverage Wholesaler 3