Navigating Choppy Waters: 5 Strategies for Thriving in the Regulated Beverage Industry in Uncertain Times

In the ever-evolving landscape of the regulated beverage industry, adaptation isn’t merely a survival skill—it’s a cornerstone of success.

As a seasoned sommelier, distiller, and former distillery owner, I've weathered my fair share of storms; luckily, I’ve also learned invaluable lessons.

Today, I'm excited to share those insights. I hope they’ll lead to innovative ideas or, at the very least, give you some comfort knowing that everyone is weathering massive change!

Leverage Events to Diversify Revenue Streams and Take the Market’s Pulse

The regulated beverage industry is a multifaceted ecosystem influenced by shifts in consumer preferences, regulations, and market trends. To thrive in this environment, diversification is critical. Events serve not only as platforms for brand exposure but also as opportunities for education and community-building. By hosting tastings, workshops, and pairing events, beverage businesses can foster deeper connections with customers, diversify revenue streams, and get real-time feedback about trending preferences.

Harness Excess Production Capacity

In an industry marked by stringent regulations and high entry barriers, white labeling presents a strategic avenue for expansion. By using excess production capacity, established brands can offer contract manufacturing services to smaller players, tapping into new markets without compromising core offerings. Collaboration fosters innovation and mutual growth, creating collaborations that benefit all parties.

Embrace Low- and Non-Alcoholic Products

As consumer preferences shift toward healthier lifestyles, the demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages is rising. By diversifying product portfolios to include options with little to no alcohol, beverage businesses can tap into new demographics and capture market share in this growing segment. By leveraging your expertise in flavor profiles and craftsmanship, you’ll create premium offerings that rival your alcoholic counterparts.

Cultivate Diversity and Community

In an industry as vibrant and diverse as the regulated beverage sector, inclusivity is both a moral imperative and a strategic advantage. By fostering diversity and inclusion within your organization, you can tap into a wealth of perspectives and talent, driving innovation and creativity. By engaging with your local community and supporting causes that align with your values, you can build loyalty and goodwill, strengthening your brand and fostering long-term sustainability.

Make Data-Driven Decisions

Data is at the heart of profitable decisions and is critical for companies that want to keep up with changing market dynamics. Those that don’t risk being left behind. Should I invest in a bottling line? Outsource production? Create a new Kombucha brand? Double down on our seasonal brew? Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, like Brutos from Vision33, are comprehensive solutions for managing every aspect of your business. They unify data from the back office to the production floor, empowering leaders to make confident, data-driven decisions while ensuring agility and efficiency in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Learn More

Navigating the complexities of the regulated beverage industry requires a blend of foresight, adaptability, and innovation. By embracing diversification, collaboration, technology, and social responsibility, beverage businesses can thrive in an ever-changing landscape. As thought leaders in the industry, we must lead by example, drive positive change, and shape the future of the beverage industry for generations to come.

To explore how Brutos, Vision33’s ERP solution for beverage businesses, can help your business thrive in these uncertain times, visit https://www.vision33.com/brutos or contact us for more information.

About the Author

Kelly Ann Woods has spent over 20 years in the adult beverage industry, earning the esteemed titles of certified sommelier, respected mixologist, and award-winning distillery owner. She now serves as an industry consultant, advising how to use technology to support profitable growth.