||| CHAIRMAN PROFILE ||| and legislation that erodes the three-tier system .

BW : What do you think the future holds for WSWA and the broader industry ? DS : The next decade for this industry will be what we make of it , and as long as we never doubt that the future marketplace is fueled by the consumer , the outlook will be bright . All three tiers must work together to meet their preferences , provide value and choice and drive the market to meet all tastes and budgets .

As Chairman , I will work with the WSWA team to ensure our policy positions and advocacy strike a balance between smart innovation to respond to consumer demand and a regulatory process that ensures safety and competition in the marketplace . When we succeed at this , wholesalers nationwide will be even more competitive , and the value proposition as solution providers is a multiplier for the entire industry . We will continue to endorse data and technology , enhance supply chain expertise and lead by example for the future generations who will lead and work for our companies .

BY KRYSTINA SKIBO new Chairman of the Board .

Green has been a member of the board for 12 years and previously held positions in the wine and soft drink industry . We recently caught up with Green , President and Equity Manager of Capital Distributing in Oklahoma City , to recap his chairmanship and accomplishments .

BW : What have been your biggest accomplishments so far ? Gordon Green : This year has been particularly tumultuous with the challenges of the nation ’ s largest brewer affecting many distributors across the country . Even for those of us that don ’ t carry that brand , the impact of significantly decreased category volumes , a glut of inventory , and continued marketplace disruptions have been significant . Providing leadership during this difficult time while maintaining focus on all the other issues facing our industry as well as helping set us up for future success has been a challenge , but I ’ m proud of what I ’ ve helped NBWA accomplish .

BW : What do you think are some of the biggest struggles currently plaguing the industry ? GG : Our industry is constantly facing headwinds . These include ongoing pressure from suppliers , including terminations without cause , big soda ’ s continued entry into alcohol , the expansion of the ready-to-drink ( RTD ) spirits category , constant attacks on the three-tier system and the changing preferences of consumers . All of these issues have required distributors to adapt to new and changing market dynamics . NBWA has worked to help members manage through these changes and challenges .

BW : How has your previous experience in the wine and soft drink industry helped you as chairman for NBWA ? GG : I wasn ’ t born into the beer industry , and I started off my

career at Gallo Wine Company and then worked for both PepsiCo and Coca Cola distributing facilities . With the beer distribution industry ’ s current challenges and opportunities – expansion of the RTD spirits category , big soda ’ s entry into the alcohol space and the changing preferences of consumers to name a few – my previous experiences positioned me well as a strong advocate for the industry by giving me a broader understanding of the alcohol and beverage industries .

BW : What do you think the future holds for NBWA and the broader industry ? GG : The future for the beer and beverage distribution industry is bright , but we all need to take control of our own destinies and make smart decisions to position ourselves well based on changing dynamics . I think we can expect continued expansion of the sector and blurring of the lines , continued pressures on the middle tier from suppliers and continued need for diversification of our product offerings . We will also need to fight to protect our businesses and our investments as they continue to face pressure from regulators , lawmakers and in the legal arena .

BW : What advice would you give to the next chairman ? GG : It ’ s often been said that for the NBWA Chairman , whatever you think will be your priorities , do not end up being your priorities . So my advice to our incoming chairman – and future chairs – is to be flexible , be prepared for change , to listen to your board and members and to lean on the NBWA . We are incredibly lucky to have an organization with the knowledge , the team and the dedication to advocate for beer and beverage distributors . Trust that they will fight for the industry and always strive to do what ’ s in our best interests . BW

Fall 2023 • Beverage Wholesaler 5