Book Your Exhibitor Spot Today and Grow Your Business.
Book yours today and don't miss a chance to be part of America's biggest gathering of bulk and private label.
AM
09:00 AM 09:10 AMOyster Room |
![]() Ankita OkateChief Growth Officer and Events Head at Beverage Trade Network |
Welcome Address: The New Economics of Wine & Spirits: Supply Chains, Tariffs, Consumer ShiftsThe opening remarks from BTN’s Chief Growth Officer and Show Emcee, Ankita Okate, will set the tone for two days of actionable insights, strategy sessions, and high-level networking focused on the business of bulk and private label. This year’s theme, “The New Economics of Wine & Spirits,” explores how supply chain challenges, global tariffs, and shifting consumer behavior are redefining sourcing, pricing, and brand growth. |
09:10 AM 09:30 AMOyster Room |
![]() Dr. Liz Thach, MWMaster of Wine, Professor, Wine Writer & Consultant, President of Wine Market Council |
Shaping the Future: Wine Market Council Data TrendsJoin Dr. Liz Thach, MW, as she shares the latest consumer, sales, and category data shaping the U.S. wine and spirits landscape. In this session, you'll learn how inflation, shifting demographics, health consciousness, and premiumization are impacting what people drink, how they buy, and where they spend. Walk away with actionable insights to adjust your sourcing, pricing, and portfolio strategy for today's economic environment. |
09:30 AM 10:10 AMOyster Room |
![]() Emily HainesWinemaker at Trinchero Family Estates ![]() Todd RicardSenior Winemaker at Constellation Brands ![]() Darren KleinSenior Winemaker at Delicato Family Wines ![]() Vasile NicolauSenior Winemaker at E. & J. Gallo Winery ![]() Dr. Marinda KrugerVice-President Winemaking at Firstleaf |
What Top Bulk Wine Buyers Want Right NowPanel: Gallo, Constellation, Delicato, Trinchero Hear firsthand from major buyers on what’s changed in bulk procurement and partnerships. Discover their current expectations on pricing, quality, logistics, and packaging. Learn how suppliers can offer value in an increasingly margin-driven environment. A must-attend session for producers looking to secure long-term bulk contracts.
Moderated by: Sid Patel |
10:10 AM 10:40 AMOyster Room |
![]() Carly BatemanDirector of Operations at Darden Restaurants ![]() Pam SchwartzChief of Everything at APS Hospitality Group, LLC ![]() Sarah RenteriaManager at Hillstone Restaurant Group |
How to Build Beverage Programs that Thrive in a Down MarketIn today’s challenging market, leading on-premise groups reveal how they’re adapting beverage programs to manage rising costs and shifting guest expectations. Learn which strategies are helping operators maintain profitability without sacrificing quality or experience. A must-attend session for other restaurant and bar chain buyers looking to benchmark, share challenges, and gain proven ideas from top-performing programs.
Moderated by : Ankita Okate |
10:40 AM 11:00 AMOyster Room |
![]() Horst MuellerGlobal Head VinLog at Kuehne + Nagel |
Navigating Tariffs, Supply Shifts & Logistics in Bulk Wine and SpiritsGlobal supply chains have become more complex than ever—impacted by changing trade policies, rising tariffs, freight volatility, and sourcing disruptions. In this session, logistics expert Horst Mueller of Kuehne + Nagel breaks down the latest challenges and offers practical strategies to streamline movement of bulk wine and spirits. Learn how to reduce delays, manage costs, optimize routing, and prepare for regulatory fluctuations. Whether you’re shipping in tanks, IBCs, or containers, this session is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving import-export environment. |
PM
01:00 PM 01:30 PMOyster Room |
![]() Ankita OkateChief Growth Officer and Events Head at Beverage Trade Network ![]() Karissa KruseCEO & President of Sonoma County Winegrowers ![]() Joel PetersonExecutive Director at Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance ![]() Bonnie ButcherExecutive Director, Mendocino Winegrowers |
Let's Grow Wine PanelA global initiative by Beverage Trade Network with some of the leading wine associations heads and wine region advocates around the world on how we can grow wine consumption. The platform will brainstorm ideas that trade can apply in growing the wine category globally. The points of discussion:
Moderated by : Ankita Okate |
01:30 PM 01:50 PMOyster Room |
![]() Christian DeakinProduct Development Manager, BevZero |
BevZero: Revolutionizing Low- and No-Alcohol BeveragesChristian Deakin dive into the technical and market aspects of dealcoholized beverages, exploring trends and product development strategies. Speakers:
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01:50 PM 02:10 PMOyster Room |
![]() Sid PatelCEO and Founder at Beverage Trade Network and IBWSS Shows ![]() Patrick MacKenzieDirector of International Business Development for Tennessee Distilling Group ![]() Jade PetersonMaster Distiller and Chief Operating Officer at Kentucky Artisan Distillery ![]() Alec LeeCEO at Endless West |
Building a Successful Private Label, Contract Bottling, and Bulk Spirits Sales Business: A Sales Guide for DistilleriesThe private label spirits market is growing fast, and distilleries that offer contract bottling and bulk spirits sales are building more stable, profitable businesses. This session will show how to set up and grow a private label program, offer contract bottling to keep production lines full, and expand bulk spirit sales. Learn how to price, structure deals, attract clients, and navigate today’s supply chain and market shifts.
Moderated by : Sid Patel |
02:10 PM 02:40 PMOyster Room |
![]() Kimberly ShannonBeer, Wine and Liquor Specialist at Giant Eagle, Inc ![]() Kristen ZuverDirector of Purchasing at Bounty Hunter Wine and Spirits ![]() Bert SvenssonWine, Beer, Spirits - Liquor Department Manager and and Buyer at AVP, Pavilions Rancho Santa Margarita ![]() Rachelle CarandangSenior Manager - Product Development and Sourcing Beverages at Sam's Club ![]() Steve Beckner, CSWWine & Spirits Buyer at Grocery Outlet |
How Big Retailers Are Rethinking Their Private Label ProgramsPrivate label is no longer just a low-cost alternative — it’s a strategic growth driver for retailers. In this session, leading retail buyers discuss how their private label programs are evolving in response to changing consumer preferences, margin pressures, and supply chain dynamics. Learn what today’s retailers look for in private label partners, how they balance private label with national brands, and how suppliers can align with this fast-growing opportunity.
Moderated By : Sid Patel |
02:40 PM 03:00 PMOyster Room |
![]() Michael HoeflingClient Advisor at Vinfolio ![]() Michael BedrosianCOO and Director of Sales ![]() Duncan MarksDirector, Global Sourcing at NexTerra Wine Company ![]() Obreanna McReynoldsCo-Founder, Burden of Proof |
Sustainability: Adapting to the Changing Consumer, Buyer and ClimateAs sustainability becomes a critical driver in purchase decisions, both consumers and trade buyers are demanding more from the brands they work with. This panel, moderated by Ankita, explores how suppliers in the bulk and private label space can integrate sustainability into sourcing, packaging, and operations—while still remaining cost-effective. Panelists will discuss what buyers are prioritizing when it comes to environmental responsibility, how climate concerns are influencing purchasing behavior, and what practical steps producers can take now to stay ahead of the curve. This is a must-attend session for anyone looking to align their supply chain with the expectations of a rapidly changing world.
Moderated by : Ankita Okate |
03:00 PM 03:30 PMOyster Room |
![]() Ian PerezBrand Execution Manager at MHW |
From Concept to Market: Launching Your Alcohol BrandIan Perez walks attendees through the process of creating and launching a successful beverage alcohol brand, covering branding, compliance, and market strategies. |
05:00 PM 07:00 PMBaden Room |
![]() Sid PatelCEO and Founder at Beverage Trade Network and IBWSS Shows ![]() Horst MuellerGlobal Head VinLog at Kuehne + Nagel |
Cocktail Reception Hosted by IBWSS and VinLogJoin us for a special Cocktail Party on July 29, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM at the Baden Room, South San Francisco Conference Center. Hosted by Beverage Trade Network, this exclusive networking evening is open only to exhibitors and paid conference ticket holders. Relax, connect, and unwind with fellow industry professionals. |
AM
09:00 AM 09:10 AMOyster Room |
![]() Ankita OkateChief Growth Officer and Events Head at Beverage Trade Network |
Welcome and Opening RemarksThe opening remarks from BTN’s Chief Growth Officer and Show Emcee, Ankita Okate, will set the tone for two days of actionable insights, strategy sessions, and high-level networking focused on the business of bulk and private label. This year’s theme, “The New Economics of Wine & Spirits,” explores how supply chain challenges, global tariffs, and shifting consumer behavior are redefining sourcing, pricing, and brand growth. |
09:10 AM 09:40 AMOyster Room |
![]() Stephanie MalloryDirector of National Accounts- Hotels & Resorts ![]() Grant HewittVice President of Beverage at Loews Hotels ![]() David SamuelRegional Vice President at Hyatt Hotels ![]() Todd KudrnaDirector of Hotels at Proximo Spirits ![]() Evan TraubDirector of Accounts at IMI Agency |
Winning Hotel Beverage RFPs: What Buyers Really WantModerator: Evan Traub, Director of Accounts – IMI Beverage program RFPs can be complex, competitive, and high-stakes—especially in the hospitality space. In this expert panel, leading hotel beverage decision-makers share what they look for in proposals and how suppliers can better align with hotel brand standards, pricing structures, and service expectations. Attendees will gain practical insights into tailoring submissions, building trust with procurement teams, and increasing win rates for national hotel accounts.
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09:40 AM 10:10 AMOyster Room |
![]() Allisa HenleyMaster Distiller at Sazerac of Tennessee ![]() Thomas NeiheiselDirector - Bulk Sales & Contract Distillation ![]() Sid PatelCEO and Founder at Beverage Trade Network and IBWSS Shows |
Bulk Spirits Buying & Selling: Adapting to Supply Chain Pressures and Market RealitiesThis session offers a rare look at the bulk spirits market from both sides of the table, buyer and seller. As supply chains shift, tariffs evolve, and consumer preferences change, both buyers and sellers are adjusting how deals are structured, how prices are negotiated, and how supply is secured. Join a leading bulk buyer and a seller as they discuss today’s real market pressures, what both sides need to succeed, and how brands can navigate the new economics of the bulk spirits industry.
Moderated by : Sid Patel |
10:10 AM 10:40 AMOyster Room |
![]() Alison LeavittManaging Director at WSSA-Wine and Spirits Shippers Association ![]() Jakob HervelBranch Manager for Albatrans ![]() Javier MassFounder of Norden Bulk |
Minimize Risk in Shipping Bulk: Understanding Flexitank Shipping in Practical TermsThis panel of experts will discuss the practical matters of bulk shipping including understanding flexibag construction and the technical aspects of proper fitting and fitting, as well as crisis management for bulging or leaking. Understanding the risk and rewards and the need to use experts in the field to ensure your shipments are properly handled and protected.
Moderated by : Alison Leavitt
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10:40 AM 11:00 AMOyster Room |
![]() Sarah (Morra) QualtersVP of Marketing at Rack & Riddle Custom Wine Services |
Developing Private Label Wine BrandsPrivate label wine is no longer just a budget alternative — it’s a powerful tool for retailers, restaurants, and distributors to drive margin, brand loyalty, and differentiation. As demand for exclusive, high-quality store-branded wines grows, distilleries and wine producers have an opportunity to turn private label services into a consistent, scalable revenue stream. In this session, Sarah (Morra) Qualters, VP of Marketing at Rack & Riddle Custom Wine Services, shares a comprehensive guide to building a thriving private label wine business — covering the full journey from marketing and lead generation to business development and long-term client retention. Learn how to position your private label offering in the market, attract the right buyers, craft compelling brand stories, and structure deals that balance value and profitability. You’ll also gain insights into client onboarding, setting production expectations, ensuring consistent quality, and delivering service levels that turn one-time buyers into long-term partners. Whether you're a supplier offering private label solutions or a buyer looking to expand your private label wine program, this session delivers actionable strategies to build, grow, and sustain success in this booming segment. |
Book yours today and don't miss a chance to be part of America's biggest gathering of bulk and private label.