DrinkUp Live Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Agent Red shares his journey in the wine industry, detailing the inception and growth of Wine Spies. He discusses the unique business model of offering a different wine every 24 hours, the importance of customer engagement, and the innovative features like the 'Lockers' system that enhance the buying experience. The conversation also touches on personal values, team...

In this episode, we discuss how live social selling empowers small beverage brands to thrive in a competitive market projected to reach $1.6 trillion by 2025. With challenges like market saturation and stringent retailer selections, brands can leverage live sessions for direct consumer engagement, fostering trust and community.

As we kick off 2025, tune in to learn about the key trends from 2024 in the adult beverage market. We discuss how wholesalers are tightening their grip, cutting brands that don’t meet sales targets, and how retailers are streamlining their SKUs. Discover the essential push and pull strategies you need to survive in this crowded space, from engaging tastings to influencer marketing. Listen in and g...

In this episode, the podcast explores the significance of flexible planning for beverage brands, highlighting the OGSM framework as a key tool for navigating an ever-changing market. The host discusses the necessity of having a clear vision to effectively execute strategies, underscoring the invaluable role of agency expertise in this process. A common misconception about agencies is addressed, wh...

In this episode, we tackle the misconceptions surrounding the success of beverage startups, focusing on the reality that distribution is just one piece of the puzzle. With a staggering 95% failure rate for new beverage brands, we highlight the need for strategic support beyond simply securing distribution. Through a revealing anecdote, we illustrate how many entrepreneurs underestimate the complex...

In this engaging conversation, Marius Dissat shares his journey from a young traveler to the founder of a unique distillery that combines spirits, food, and music. He discusses the importance of family legacy in his distilling process, the significance of the number 108 in his creations, and his vision for expanding his brand globally while creating immersive experiences. Marius emphasizes the nee...

In this episode of Drink Up Live, hosts Sam Anderson and Adam Smith welcome Greg Needham, a multifaceted entrepreneur involved in gaming, influencer marketing, and product authentication. The conversation explores Greg's journey, including a life-altering experience in China that led to the creation of ZipTag, an app designed to authenticate products at the point of purchase. The discussion also d...

In this conversation, Samuel Anderson and Shane discuss the implications of tariffs on the beverage industry, focusing on cost management, consumer behavior, job market impacts, inventory challenges, pricing strategies, and the need for brands to adapt to changing market conditions. They emphasize the importance of understanding costs and preparing for future challenges while navigating the comple...

In this conversation, Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, emphasizing the need for brands to adapt to changing consumer preferences, particularly in the realm of non-alcoholic options. They explore the challenges faced by brands and restaurants in recognizing and responding to these shifts, highlighting the importance of innovation and authenticit...

In this podcast episode, Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman welcome Eric Meth from Surfside to discuss the intricacies of omni-channel e-commerce, particularly in the regulated markets of cannabis and beverage alcohol. Eric shares insights on funnel marketing, consumer behavior, and the importance of retail media in today's advertising landscape. He emphasizes the need for brands to leverage data effec...

In this engaging conversation, Wayne Latomski shares his journey of creating Wendy, a brand aimed at the 50 plus community, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer needs and the potential of this demographic. He discusses the challenges of ageism in the corporate world and offers valuable advice for those facing similar situations. The conversation also delves into the strategies for...

In this conversation, Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the recent reorganization at Southern Glacier Wine and Spirits and its implications for the distribution industry. They explore the challenges faced by brand managers, the importance of providing value to distributors, and the shifting consumer preferences towards healthier and non-alcoholic options. The discussion also touches on the evo...

In this engaging conversation, brand marketing expert Courtney O'Brien shares her extensive experience in the beverage industry, discussing the importance of understanding market dynamics, consumer needs, and crafting authentic brand stories. She emphasizes the need for brands to have a clear identity and message that resonates with consumers, as well as the significance of competitive analysis in...

In this conversation, Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the critical role of distributors in the beverage industry, emphasizing the importance of building strong partnerships, setting clear expectations, and maintaining accountability. They explore how effective distribution can lead to significant savings and reduced out-of-stock situations for suppliers. The discussion also highlights the ne...

In this conversation, Samuel Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss strategies for helping new suppliers navigate the market, particularly in the craft beer industry. They emphasize the importance of building trust with brands, understanding distributor relationships, and preparing effectively for meetings with distributors. The discussion also highlights the need for a scalable business plan, the valu...

In this conversation, Samuel Anderson and Priscilla Hennekam discuss the pressing challenges facing the wine industry, particularly the disconnect between producers and consumers. Priscilla shares her insights on the need for the industry to adapt to changing consumer preferences, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, collaboration, and innovative marketing strategies. They explore how the w...

In this conversation, Samuel Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the critical role of consulting in business growth, particularly in the beverage industry. They explore the importance of trusting experts, the challenges of building relationships, and the necessity of humility in acknowledging one's limitations. The discussion emphasizes the need for founders to identify specific problems and work co...

In this conversation, Samuel Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the intricacies of scaling a brand in the beverage industry. They emphasize the importance of focusing on core products, understanding the roles of suppliers and distributors, and the necessity of building a strong brand identity. The discussion also highlights the significance of market testing, gathering feedback, and having a clear...

The conversation focuses on finding distributors for brands and the importance of setting the foundations for success. It emphasizes the need to communicate the value of the brand to attract and engage distributors. The discussion also touches on the significance of having a solid push and pull strategy, knowing the target audience and ideal accounts, understanding the competition, and having a pl...

The conversation discusses the importance of rewarding team members and customers as part of the annual business plan (ABP). It emphasizes the need to take care of frontline employees, such as drivers and salespeople, who are often overlooked. The conversation also highlights the significance of creating a strong foundation with core distribution and then building on it with seasonal releases. The...

The conversation between Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman focuses on the importance of creating pull in marketing and sales strategies for brands. They discuss how brands often focus on pushing their products to distribution partners without considering the need to create brand engagement and customer loyalty. They emphasize the role of the brand in driving initial sales and engagement, and the impor...

In this conversation, Sam Anderson and Shane Lohman discuss the importance of an Annual Business Plan (ABP) for suppliers in the beverage industry. They emphasize that an ABP sets the foundation for success and helps define goals and expectations for both suppliers and distributors. They also highlight the significance of having a clear narrative and theme for the brand, as well as the need for co...

Five key facts that a brand owner can deploy when working with a distributor.

Sippers, Are you feeling like you're not getting the attention you deserve from your distributors? As a small supplier, I've been there, but I've learned a thing or two about managing my brands effectively. Today, I'm going to share my secret with you: the 2 x 2 x 2 method. Here's how it works: Deploy the 2 x 2 x 2 method. Ask for just 10 minutes. Let's break that down with...

🎙️ Welcome to DRINK! Dive into the world where relaxation meets rejuvenation, where science intertwines with nature, and where every sip or drop holds the potential for a transformative experience. Join us as we explore the fascinating realm of THC, CBD, hemp, and adaptogens - the cornerstones of a burgeoning industry that's reshaping not just the beverage business, but lifestyles worldwide. I...