Recent industry reports indicate that consumption of alcoholic beverages has slowed, largely attributed to the increased preference among consumers for more health-conscious lifestyles. And while this might seem like bad news for the industry, consumers aren’t willing to give up beer, wine, or spirits completely. Instead, they’re seeking out higher-quality, premium options instead. For example, craft beers saw a 5 percent increase in sales in 2018. Canned spirits sales are also growing more than 200 percent each year. And 28 percent of millennials reported drinking wine on a daily basis (representing a huge surge in wine sales). Additionally, the non-alcoholic beverage industry is expected to reach $1.60 trillion by 2025 as consumers have begun seeking out these options in place of alcoholic drinks.
With all these factors at play, the beverage industry is booming. If you’ve been looking to start a career in wine, spirits, beer or non-alcoholic beverages, the time has never been better. Read on as we share four top distributors that would be great places to launch and grow your beverage career.
1. Red Bull Distribution Company
Founded in the mid-80s by Dietrich Mateschitz, Red Bull has long been a pioneer in the beverage industry. The canned energy drink, inspired by drinks native to the Far East, was not only a new product but also launched an entirely new product category. In the 32 years since the company’s launch, they’ve sold 75 billion cans in 171 countries, bringing their brand value to a whopping $10.4 billion (as of April 2018). Red Bull continues to reinvent their offerings, from their classic offering to sugar-free, zero-calorie, and organic varieties as well as a slew of flavors, which has allowed the company to stay popular with each new generation of consumers. Whether you find yourself associated with the distributor through their recently launched incubator program or as one of their 12,000-plus direct employees, partnering with the brand is a surefire way to launch your career in the beverage industry. Red Bull Distribution Company (RBDC) was established in 2009 to exclusively distribute Red Bull products and provide world-class market execution in the U.S. Browse some of their open roles below.
2. Breakthru Beverage Group
A leading North American distributor of the world’s top luxury and premium wine, spirits, and beer brands, Breakthru Beverage Group has markets throughout the continental U.S. and Canada. Launched in 2016, the company is family-owned and operated. Employing more than 7,000 associates, Breakthru is a company that not only cares about its people but also cares about doing business differently. The wholesaler has grown at an astonishing pace by adhering closely to its values and by bringing on passionate people. With more than $5 billion in annual sales, Breakthru Beverage Group offers a lot of great opportunities to join an incredible company culture.
3. Republic National Distributing Company
A true industry leader, the Republic National Distributing Company (RNCD) was built on the strong foundations of three family-owned companies. After a merger in 2006, RNDC became the second-largest wholesaler in the United States. Today, they’re a highly sought-after employer thanks to their commitment to career and development opportunities, a positive work culture, and the value they place on family and community. RNDC maintains a stunning internal promotion rate of 85 percent, and more than 65 percent of their current management roles are filled by former college recruits. This company would be ideal for someone who’s looking to develop their career over the long-term at one company.
4. Empire Merchants
With roots that stretch back to the end of prohibition, Empire Merchants has established itself as the lead distributor in the metropolitan New York City area. Focused on service and quality, the company has state-of-the-art facilities in Brooklyn and Queens, and more than 1,500 employees currently on their payroll. The wholesaler focuses on creating an innovative and educational atmosphere for their team and is always looking for talented and motivated people to join their operation — regardless of their background. Aside from a host of great benefits, Empire Merchants employees can take advantage of their various learning and development programs which are designed to help employees find ways to grow and move up in the company. For those looking to start their career in the beverage industry while living in the heart of New York, Empire Merchants is a great company to consider.
Interested in working at a top distributor? Explore our BevForce division.
