The participation of women in leadership roles across the beverage alcohol industry �spanning production, distribution and marketing � is not merely an issue of equity but a strategic business imperative for sustained growth. By challenging historical norms and fostering inclusive cultures, women leaders are uniquely positioned to drive innovation, better align products with changing consumer preferences and directly contribute to organizational profitability.

The beverage alcohol industry is well known to be a little behind the times when it comes to females having leadership roles. And while just a few years ago, DEI( diversity, equity and in-clusion) efforts were ramping up at companies large and small, today, many are disappointedly disbanding these programs.

It would be a mistake to ignore or abandon the principles of DEI, because diversity is just good business. Most people believe in social and economic progress, and with the country’ s increasingly diverse population, consumers want to see themselves in the products or services that they engage with.

Women have especially powerful purchasing decisions, with recent data suggesting that women influence up to 70 to 80 % of household alcohol purchasing decisions, particularly in categories like wine and ready-to-drink( RTD) cocktails.

When women occupy executive positions, they provide invaluable insight into the behaviors, desires and communication preferences of this critical consumer base. This perspec-tive leads to smarter product development, more effective marketing campaigns and the successful identification of premiumization trends, all of which directly enhance market share and revenue.

Women have also been pivotal in driving the rise of the low- and no-ABV beverage options. In many demographics, women consumers prioritize moderation, better-for-you ingredients and drinks that fit seamlessly into a health-conscious lifestyle.

We will not stay quiet as other companies abandon their DEI efforts. Women, alongside those who have been historically underrepresented or subject to discrimination based on identity or disability, bring diversity of thought that is essential for navigating complex glob-al regulations and maintaining ethical, responsible business practices.

The powerful women represented in this feature are a testament as to why DEI programs should remain in place for the future of beverage alcohol.

Sixteen female leaders in the beverage alcohol industry weigh in on how they got their start, their inspirations and role models, and the benefits of having women at the table making decisions.

8 JENNIFER CHAPLIN TOLKIN 9 CRISTINA DESMOND 9 DEBORAH BRENNER 11 JACI FLUG 11 REBECCA MAISEL 12 JANELLE BASA 13 CHRISTINE COONEY 14 LITTY MATHEW 15 NORA GANLEY-ROPER 15 LARISSA ARJONA 16 JENNIFER CHIN 18 MARIAN LEITNER-WALDMAN 19 BARBARA WONG 19 DEE ROBINSON 20 JUYOUNG KANG 21 CECILE GIRAUD

Krystina Skibo Trade Managing Editor

2025 WOMEN IN BEVERAGE 3