EDITORS NOTE
Beverage Group Vice President Jeremy Nedelka 763-383-4413 jnedelka @ epgacceleration . com
Editor , On-Premise Melissa Dowling 763-383-4442 mdowling @ epgacceleration . com
Editor , Off-Premise Kyle Swartz 763-383-4447 kswartz @ epgacceleration . com
Trade Managing Editor Krystina Skibo 763-383-4419 kskibo @ epgacceleration . com
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
The Future is Sustainable
Consumers today demand more transparency about where and how goods are made , and companies that produce and sell beverage alcohol need to be mindful of this . Whether it involves cultivating wine grapes , harvesting agave plants , brewing beer or distilling spirits , more people want assurance that products they purchase were made in a way that ’ s responsible and respectful to the earth .
Every link in the chain — producers , distributors and on- / off-premise sellers — can take steps to embrace sustainable practices , from embracing solar and renewable energy to conserving water and fuel to reducing waste . This edition of our annual sustainability guide takes a close look at the environmental , social and corporate governance ( ESG ) initiatives of some beverage industry players .
From more sustainable beer brewing to a winemaker ’ s bold goals and initiatives to lead climate solutions , to a tequila brand ’ s community-informed investments to improve environmental conditions and foster sustainable growth , suppliers are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprints . On the operator side , cruise lines are offering zero-waste cocktails , closed-loop spirits packaging and responsible fish sourcing . Hotels and restaurants have embraced efforts such as locally grown and in-season ingredients , kegged cocktails , natural and organic wine , recycled glassware , sustainable straws and much more .
It ’ s not just good for the earth , it ’ s good business , as consumers demand accountability and show a willingness to pay more for sustainable goods . As Maria Pearman , principal and leader in the food and beverage practice at national advisory and accounting firm GHJ says , sustainability is no longer just an ethical consideration ; it ’ s a strategic necessity .
Sr VP / Audience Development Joanne Juda-Prainito
CEO Marion Minor
Beverage Dynamics , Cheers and State- Ways are published by EPG Brand Acceleration Editorial and executive offices at 7760 France Avenue South , Suite 810 , Bloomington , MN 55435 .
Melissa Dowling Editor
SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY
4 Sustainability in the News
8 On- and Off-premise Operators See the Green Light
How restaurants , retailers and hospitality brands are embracing sustainable efforts By Melissa Dowling and Kyle Swartz
10 Ensuring a Brighter Future Through Sustainability
Beverage alcohol industry suppliers adapt more eco-friendly business practices By Krystina Skibo
2023 Sustainability Guide 3