Beer Business Finance

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Jun 2026

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Beer Business Finance is financial intelligence for beer wholesalers. We are dedicated to giving you clear, common-sense financial guidance so that you can improve financial results in your beer business. More profits, better cash flow, that’s Beer Business Finance. Listen to the podcast. The journey to a stronger financial business begins now.

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60 recent

June 18, 202649 min

Execution Wins: What Top Beverage Distributors Do Differently

Sales teams today have more data than ever but many distributors still struggle to translate insights into action. In this episode, I talk with Bud Dunn and Alicia Henrichs from VxP to unpack what recent sales execution data reveals about distributor performance, why execution gaps continue to widen, and the practical systems leading wholesalers are using to improve accountability, visibility, and profitable growth. Key Takeaways Why execution is increasingly becoming the differentiator in beverage distribution performance. The biggest pressures facing distributor sales teams today: rep turnover, spreadsheet-driven workflows, and limited visibility into field performance. How top-performing distributors translate goals into daily execution and manage to profit not just volume. Practical steps leaders can take in the next 30–60 days to assess execution gaps and improve results. Resources Connect with Bud Dunn, bud@vxptech.com and Alicia Henrichs, alicia@vxptech.com to learn more about VxP Get the Beer Wholesaler Profit Brief - tactics, strategies and best practices to build a more profitable beer business Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

June 12, 202649 min

Captive Insurance: The Secret Weapon to Slash Health Costs

Health insurance is one of the largest expenses on the P&L, but for most businesses it remains a complete black box. In this episode, we hear from Erin Butler from BevCap to unpack how employer health insurance really works, why costs keep rising, and how captive insurance arrangements are giving companies a way to take control. Learn how businesses are reducing healthcare spend by 20–40% while improving employee benefits. You'll also hear a case study of a beer wholesaler saving more than $1 million annually with a captive arrangement. Key Takeaways: Why health insurance deserves the same financial discipline and cost management as any other major operating expense. What captive health insurance is and how it differs from traditional fully insured plans. How employers can create more transparency and control over healthcare costs. The types of businesses that tend to benefit most from a captive approach (and who may not). A real-world case study showing how one beer wholesaler saved over $1 million per year while improving employee benefits. Resources Connect with Erin from BevCap, ebutler@bevcapmanagement.com Get the Beer Wholesaler Profit Brief - tactics, strategies and best practices to run a more profitable beer business Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

March 11, 20261 hr 0 min

Using AI Without the Anxiety: Practical Ways Beer Wholesalers Can Start Today

Artificial intelligence is everywhere in business conversations right now, but for many beer wholesalers, the real challenge is simply knowing where to start. In this conversation with Bud Dunn from VxP , we cut through the hype and focus on practical ways AI can help wholesalers save time, improve decision-making, and support their teams. Instead of complicated technology projects, Bud shares how AI can assist with sales insights, forecasting, reporting, and everyday administrative work, while reinforcing the roles of experienced people in the business. If you’ve been curious about AI but unsure how it fits into a wholesale operation, this discussion provides a clear, low-risk framework for getting started. Key Takeaways • Start simple and practical. AI can deliver value quickly by helping summarize reports, analyze sales data, and assist with administrative tasks—no major technology overhaul required. • Use AI to support your sales and leadership teams. Tools can help identify trends, prepare for customer visits, and highlight opportunities in existing sales data. • Focus on time savings first. One of the biggest benefits of AI is reducing repetitive work so managers and teams can focus on strategy, relationships, and decision-making. • Separate real opportunity from hype. AI works best today as a tool for analysis and efficiency—not as a replacement for human judgment or industry experience. • Experiment safely. The best way to adopt AI is through small experiments with clear guardrails, allowing organizations to learn what works without overwhelming the team. Resources Connect with Bud Dunn to learn more about how VxP can supercharge your sales and margin growth - bud@vxptech.com Grab the free and value-packed Wholesaler Profit Brief - Clear Numbers, Cash Flow Clarity, and One Practical Action to Improve Financial Results Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

January 16, 202635 min

Leading Beer Forward: Advocacy, Growth, and the Next Generation with Kim McKinnish (NBWA)

In this episode, we hear from Kim McKinnish SVP and COO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) to talk about the future of beer. Kim shares insights on the current state of the industry, the power of advocacy, and key NBWA initiatives including the BREW Initiative , the Next Generation of Leaders Group , and the Beer First Campaign . Our conversation explores how leadership, relationships, and culture drive stronger businesses — and what distributors can do right now to build a healthier, more sustainable beer industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: An insider’s perspective on the current state of the beer industry and the biggest challenges and opportunities ahead What the BREW Initiative (Building Relationships & Empowering Women) is and how it’s helping develop talent across the industry Why empowering women and building inclusive cultures leads to stronger leadership teams and better business results The purpose behind NBWA’s Next Generation of Leaders Group and how it’s preparing future industry leaders The leadership skills and mindset shifts the next wave of beer professionals need to succeed An overview of the Beer Growth Initiative and NBWA’s Beer First Campaign Practical ways distributors and breweries can put the Beer First mindset into action in sales, marketing, and operations Kim’s outlook on where the beer industry is headed over the next 3–5 years Actionable takeaways for building better teams, better partnerships, and a stronger beer business Do you need tips and strategies to improve cash flow in your beer business? Get the Beer Business Finance newsletter. Packed with actionable tactics and best strategies you can implement right away to see real results on your income statement. Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

November 11, 202548 min

The Future of Functional Beverages with Julie Rhodes of Kick Beverages

Today, I’m joined by Julie Rhodes , co-founder of Kick Beverages and industry consultant with Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions . Julie and her team are making waves with Kick Fizz , a hemp-derived beverage that’s redefining how consumers think about social and functional drinks. In this conversation, we dig into: The inspiration behind Kick Fizz and how Julie identified an opening for a hemp-derived beverage in today’s evolving market. How Kick Beverages positions itself in the space between beer and cannabis—and what that means for brand identity, compliance, and distribution. The science and art behind flavor formulation and dosage, and how Kick Fizz balances taste, experience, and safety. The unique challenges of consumer education in a category that’s still new to many drinkers. And finally, where Julie sees the future of THC beverages heading in the next few years—from retail placement to mainstream adoption. It’s a fascinating look at innovation, regulation, and the business of bringing a completely new beverage category to market. Want to learn more? Connect with Julie@KickBeverages.com. Sign up for the beer industry financial training newsletter. Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

November 6, 202548 min

How to Build Financial Accountability Across Your Beer Wholesaler Team

Financial results shouldn’t live only in the accounting office, they belong to every department. In this podcast, I'll share how beer wholesalers can build a culture of financial accountability by giving managers the tools, training, and systems to understand and own their numbers. You’ll learn how to provide financial literacy education, involve department leaders in high-involvement planning, and run regular financial huddles that turn data into action. The result: smarter decisions, stronger engagement, and better bottom-line performance across your entire operation. P.S. Don't forget to sign up for the free weekly financial training newsletter specifically created for beer wholesalers. Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

October 31, 202534 min

The Beer Distributor Tax Playbook: Credits, Deductions & Smart Planning

In today's episode, we hear from RJ Martucci, Partner and Co-Lead of the Food & Beverage Practice at PKF O’Connor Davies, to break down the latest tax rules and strategies affecting beer wholesalers. From entity structure and depreciation rules to credits, incentives, and estate planning, RJ shares practical guidance to help wholesalers reduce taxes, avoid surprises, and build long-term value. If you want to keep more cash in your business — both now and when it’s time to exit — this episode is for you. Connect with RJ Martucci - RMartucci@pkfod.com Get the beer industry financial training weekly briefing. Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

October 18, 202555 min

The State of Beer: Economic Trends Every Wholesaler Needs to Know

In today's podcast we dig into the "state of beer" with economist Lester Jones , separating structural shifts from cyclical noise and outlining a practical playbook to drive sales growth. From broken pricing elasticity to on-premise strategy and demographics, we share data and specific moves. Key Topics: • industry volumes down and dollars soft • structural vs cyclical drivers shaping demand • beer purchasers’ index sentiment and signals • pricing power fading and elasticity reset • on-premise momentum, draft advantages, happy hour value • occasion-led strategy with low and no alcohol • demographics by life stage, not generations • policy confusion on tariffs and taxation • action playbook for wholesalers and brewers Resources: Join the October 23rd webinar with FinTech and NBWA - Register Here Get the FREE beer business finance newsletter - financial intel delivered straight to your inbox Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

October 11, 202554 min

Inside the Audit Room: Lessons from Reyes Holdings for Wholesaler Success

A CFO who became a head of marketing, eliminated millions in debt , and then built a company to fix distribution blind spots—Doug Veliky’s journey is a masterclass in making beer businesses sturdier and smarter. We dig into the decisions that actually move the needle : building an internal audit team at Reyes that focused on real compliance risk, redesigning systems at Revolution to produce market-level P&Ls, and consolidating a spaghetti bowl of loans into a revolving line that turned heavy debt into daily cash efficiency. That financial clarity paved the way for a bold move —buying the production facility—and gave the brewery control over the investments that shape its future. We also get honest about how teams work. Doug shows how finance, sales, and marketing can stop talking past each other by aligning on the data each team needs: shipments, depletions, pull-through. The result? Better forecasts, fewer surprises, and programs that actually show up on the shelf and in the tap list. Doug's Beer Crunchers platform ties it all together , translating the mechanics of distributors, portfolios, and pricing into stories and tactics people at every level can use. And when the world flipped, Doug brought a finance brain to digital marketing—prioritizing audience, cadence, and measurable impact. Looking forward, Doug sees moderation evolving beyond non-alcoholic beer into “small beers” and right-sized formats that meet the moment—2.8–3.8% ABV cores and 8.4-ounce packs that fit weekday occasions without losing the ritual. The catch is prioritization: make it a pillar or skip it. We close with BrightBev , where Doug helps emerging brands choose the right distributors, set expectations, and invest alongside partners to win velocity, not just placements. If you care about beer business finance, route-to-market strategy, and building brands that last, this conversation will sharpen your plan for the next four quarters. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—what will you prioritize next? And don't forget to sign up for the Wholesaler Financial Newsletter - tips, tactics, and strategies to help you build a more profitable brewery business. Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.

July 14, 202556 min

Maximizing Profit with VxP: Beer Wholesaler Tools for Growth and Efficiency

In today's podcast you'll hear the audio version of our workshop on how to grow sales, increase gross profits and reduced finished product loss. In this session, you’ll learn how to: Increase gross profit using the powerful VxP tool Reduce finished product loss through more efficient inventory management Identify key opportunities to grow top-line sales Key Takeaways Gain actionable insights for boosting gross profit Learn how VxP can transform your business operations Get practical, real-world strategies you can implement immediately Do this next... Watch the replay... Boosting Profit and Sales with VxP Connect with Bud Dunn from VxP, bud@vxptech.com Learn more about the network of beer wholesaler owners and managers working together to improve cash flow and profitability Today’s episode is brought to you by BevCap. At Beer Business Finance, we talk a lot about installing systems that improve profitability and health insurance should be no exception. BevCap helps beverage companies apply the same discipline they use across the rest of the P&L to employee benefits, helping create smarter plans, more visibility into costs, and significant savings over time. To learn more visit BevCapManagement.com.