Schedule Offers

Kaleigh Theriault and Jon Berg from NielsenIQ will provide an in-depth analysis of the latest trends and consumer behavior in the alcohol industry. Learn how data can guide strategic decision-making for brands, retailers, and importers, and discover actionable insights for 2024 and beyond.

Speakers:

• Kaleigh Theriault, Director of Thought Leadership, NIQ Beverage Alcohol Vertical

• Jon Berg, Thought Leadership VP, Beverage Alcohol Vertical, NielsenIQ

Brian Rosen, Chairman of InvestBev, will share lessons from years of experience in launching brands. He’ll break down the most common mistakes that hinder success and provide actionable advice for emerging and established brands aiming to thrive in the competitive alcohol market.

Speaker:

• Brian Rosen, Chairman, InvestBev

A panel of seasoned importers and distributors will discuss strategies for successful partnerships, portfolio management, and market penetration. Learn from their experiences and gain insights into how to build a strong relationship with key stakeholders in the supply chain.

Speakers:

• John Harford, Midwest Regional Manager, Premium Port Wines Inc.

• Lee Schlesinger, MBA, DipWSET, VP of Portfolio Management & Education, Winesellers Ltd.

• David Kohl, VP Portfolio Manager, Chateau & Estates Wine Imports LLC

• Monique Huston, VP Spirits Portfolio, Winebow USA

This session will feature leading retail experts discussing the challenges and opportunities in the current alcohol market. Discover what retailers are looking for from brands and how to position your products effectively.

Speakers:

• To be announced

Leading suppliers will share their insights into managing large-scale operations, market challenges, and strategies for sustained growth in the global alcohol industry.

Speakers:

• To be announced

Top sommeliers and beverage directors will share their perspectives on curating beverage programs, navigating consumer preferences, and building partnerships with producers and distributors to enhance their offerings.

Speakers:

• Mark Guillaudeu, MS, Master Sommelier, 2022 & 2024 Best Sommelier - USA, Sommelier at Wrigley Mansion, Phoenix

• Élyse Lambert, MS, Master Sommelier, Fifth Position Best Sommelier of the World 2016

• Rachael Lowe, Director of Beverage Operations, Levy

Leading bar professionals will share insights on crafting innovative experiences, adapting to industry trends, and managing operations in an evolving market. Learn from their strategies to create standout bar programs.

Speakers:

• Mike Ryan, Global Beverage Director, Acurio International, Chicago

• Peter Vestinos, Partner and Beverage Director, Sparrow Chicago

• Miranda Breedlove, National Director of Bars, Hyatt Lifestyle Operations

Catalonia: A Journey Through 12 PDO Wine Regions

This masterclass, part of the European program Taste the Difference, will explore the rich diversity of Catalan wines through seven selections from Catalonia’s 12 PDO regions. Home to the fifth-largest vineyard area in Europe, Catalonia’s wines reflect a unique terroir shaped by the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees. This session highlights the region’s deep-rooted winemaking tradition and innovative spirit, where every bottle tells a story of culture, craftsmanship, and excellence.