Wine, Beer, and Spirits Continues its Evolution: National Accolades, Industry Memberships and Leadership Team Expansion
01 Mayo 2024 - 10:55AM
Wine, Beer, and Spirits (WBS) is pleased to announce a series of
significant accomplishments and updates in the first quarter of
2024.
- WBS has secured its spot as a Top 100 Retailer by Beverage
Dynamics for the 3rd year in a row,
- Market Watch magazine nominated WBS as one of six “Leaders” in
beverage alcohol retailing,
- The Company has joined two leading consortiums of independent
liquor stores, and
- WBS has hired industry veteran Bob Portis as the Company’s Wine
& Purchasing Consultant.
WBS secured its spot among the top liquor stores in America for
the third consecutive year, receiving the Beverage Dynamics Top 100
Retailers Award. This recognition highlights WBS's explosive growth
and commitment to innovation, excellent customer service, and
leadership within the industry.
WBS has been nominated by the editors of Market Watch magazine
as a “Leader” for excellence in beverage alcohol retailing. Market
Watch has honored progressive alcohol retailers since 1984,
including many of the nation’s largest chains. WBS will be one of
six retailers honored this year from across the country, and will
accept the award at Market Watch’s Annual Leader’s Banquet in NYC
this September.
WBS was invited to join the esteemed Wine & Spirits Guild of
America (The Guild). This association is made up of 40+ leading
independent liquor stores across the country, each recognized for
possessing the most innovative marketing techniques and
finest/deepest selection of spirits, wine and beer in their
respective markets. With $2+ billion in collective annual sales and
over 500 stores represented, The Guild provides leadership on a
national level for wine and spirits retailers.
WBS has also joined The Alliance, another leading association of
independent liquor stores. The Alliance is an influential force in
the industry, with 30+ members and more than 650 stores represented
across North America. The Alliance provides WBS with a platform to
bring innovative, value-enhancing products and services to its
customers in Nebraska.
Bob Portis has been appointed as Wine, Beer and Spirits' Wine
& Purchasing Consultant. Mr. Portis possesses 40+ years of
industry experience, most recently serving as Executive Vice
President of Wine Sales for RNDC Nebraska. In his new role, Mr.
Portis will oversee the Company’s Wine strategy and growth, while
also spearheading WBS’ efforts with The Guild and The Alliance.
Expressing his excitement, Bob stated, "I am honored to be part
of the WBS team and lead our efforts in partnering with The
Alliance and The Guild. Together, we will continue to raise the bar
in the Midwest and enhance the customer experience in our
stores."
Wine, Beer and Spirits' CEO, Beau Starkel, shares the enthusiasm
for these developments. “We are thrilled to welcome Bob to our
team, appreciate the industry recognition and are excited to get to
work with these leading associations,” noted Starkel. “With our
customers in mind, we will keep pushing the needle as an industry
leader in Nebraska and across the country.”
About Wine, Beer, and Spirits:
Founded in 2020, Wine, Beer, and Spirits has grown to become
Nebraska’s largest locally-owned liquor store chain, with locations
in West Omaha, Downtown Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Fremont.
In addition to offering the widest selection in town, customers are
greeted at each store entrance by a full bar, featuring whiskies,
tequilas, and craft beers at excellent prices. Yes, you can drink
while you shop! Weekly events, such as food trucks, tap takeovers,
supplier giveaways, and product samplings, flood each store’s
calendar. Check out a WBS store today or find us online at
https://www.winebeerandspirits.com/.
Aaron KonenCFOWine Beer and
Spiritsaaron@winebeerandspirits.com (402) 657-4456