Danica Dias , founder of Grown Folks , a Black / woman-owned hard seltzer brand .
ALCOHOL ’ S GROWING DIVERSITY MOVEMENT
The beverage alcohol industry has made considerable strides in recent years in improving and highlighting diversity and inclusion . Many successful brands , businesses and entrepreneurs have contributed towards this admirable goal .
From a purely business perspective , appealing to a wider consumer base makes sense . People of all backgrounds drink alcohol . Products that reflect the reality of our country ’ s increasingly diverse legal drinking age population are better positioned for growth going forward .
“ We live in the most ethnically diverse population in history ,” says Danica Dias , founder of Grown Folks , a Los Angeles-based , Black / woman-owned hard seltzer brand meant to celebrate soul food and Creole culture . “ Consumers seek out ethnic products and flavors , and for such a diverse population , they want
by KYLE SWARTZ
“ We live in the most ethnically diverse
population in history .”
– Danica Dias , founder of Grown Folks
to see themselves in the brands they engage with .”
Equal opportunity is equally important . Launching and growing beverage alcohol brands is hard enough without roadblocks that have nothing to do with business . All people should enjoy the same chance of success — and failure — when it comes to entrepreneurialism in this industry .
“ The social movements and heighened awareness around racial and economic inequalities have brought to light the systemic barriers that Black and minority-owned businesses face ,” says Sunshine Foss , founder / CEO of Happy Cork , a wine and spirits shop in Brooklyn , NY , that curates a large selection of Black- and minority-owned brands . “ Consumers are more conscious of these disparities , and are making intentional choices to support businesses that promote social justice and equity .”
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