Join Gary Fisch, Top 100 Retailer Hall of Famer and CEO of Gary's Wine & Marketplace, for an engaging keynote on leadership, customer experience, and building a culture that drives growth. Drawing from decades of retail innovation and entrepreneurial success, Gary shares practical insights on adapting to changing consumer expectations, empowering teams, and creating memorable in-store experiences that keep customers coming back.

Join Gary Fisch of Gary's Wine & Marketplace and fellow independent beverage alcohol retailers for an insightful panel discussion on the current state of the industry. This conversation will explore evolving consumer trends, supplier relationships, regulatory challenges, e-commerce growth, and the unique advantages independent retailers bring to their communities. Panelists will share real-world perspectives on navigating market pressures, staying competitive with national chains, and identifying opportunities for innovation and growth.

Hear from a technology provider and a retailer who will demonstrate how the latest tech can help you manage inventory, move aging products and match the right customers with the right purchases.

Meet fellow attendees and sponsors.

Members of the middle tier will be available to answer questions from our moderator and attendees. Beverage Wholesaler editor Krystina Skibo will join Beverage Dynamics editor Kyle Swartz for this lively discussion, covering topics ranging from logistics and ordering platforms to building a better relationship between retailers and distributors.

The scenic beauty of Southern France is epitomized by Provence—the renowned French Riviera vineyard region celebrated for producing some of the finest rosé wines in the world.

Stretching from the Alps to the Mediterranean Sea, this sun-drenched landscape is defined by rolling vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves. Provence consistently showcases why its wines dominate as the #1 imported rosé in the U.S. premium segment. Sloping mountains and fertile valleys benefit from abundant sunshine, while the powerful mistral winds sweep through the region, naturally cleansing the vineyards and helping develop the bright, crisp acidity that defines Provence rosé.

Award-winning wine educator Robert Cavanaugh leads us on a journey through this remarkable region, exploring how its three protected appellations are shaping one of the most significant and sustained trends in U.S. retail wine buying. Drawing on his experience as a former Director of Beverage for multiple Ritz-Carlton hotels and as Corporate Wine Buyer for Total Wine & More, Robert provides expert insight into how this category continues to outpace other wine segments—bringing the story of Provence vividly to life.

Back in 2026! Join executives from across the beverage alcohol industry in this closed-door discussion. Topics include how the tiers and channels can work together to overcome challenges and increase efficiencies, as well as best practices for obtaining and utilizing industry data.

Open to suppliers, distributors, retailers, operators, industry associations, data providers and technology companies.

Limited space available - if you have not been invited to this session, please indicate your interest in joining when you pickup your badge.

Discover how experiential retail is reshaping the beverage alcohol landscape in this engaging panel featuring leading independent retailers. Panelists will share strategies for creating memorable in-store experiences — from tastings and events to education, merchandising, and hospitality — that drive customer loyalty and increase sales. Learn how retailers are transforming their stores into destinations, building stronger community connections, and differentiating themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Attendees will leave with practical ideas to elevate their customer experience and turn everyday shopping into something customers look forward to.

Join fellow retailers at an exclusive visit to Top Ten Liquors, a twin cities chain and perennial Top 100 Retailer. You'll see their operations first-hand, while you network with peers and sample wines and spirits from our sponsors. 

Transportation will be provided. Bus will leave the Marquette Hotel at 5:30pm and return at 8:00pm.

Join industry leaders at our annual Women's Leadership Breakfast for an inspiring conversation on how professionals can accelerate their careers, expand their influence, and shape the future of the beverage alcohol industry. Through candid discussions on leadership, mentorship, career growth, strategic partnerships, and navigating industry challenges, attendees will gain valuable insights from accomplished executives who are paving the way for the next generation of leaders.

Consumer beverage preferences are evolving rapidly, and retailers, suppliers, and distributors are adapting in real time. “The Changing Landscape” is a 2.5-hour deep-dive panel exploring some of the biggest emerging trends reshaping beverage alcohol today, including Cannabis/CBD beverages, no- and low-alcohol products, “better for you” beverages, and the purchasing habits of Gen Z consumers.

Featuring a rotating collection of speakers from across the beverage alcohol industry and related sectors, this extended discussion will bring together perspectives from retailers, suppliers, distributors, marketers, analysts and emerging category experts. Attendees will gain insight into how these fast-growing segments are influencing merchandising, consumer engagement, regulation, and long-term retail strategy.

Meet with fellow attendees and sponsors.

City Hive CEO Roi Kliper will detail ten predictions for the next two years, covering topics like data vulnerabilities, consolidation, e-commerce changes, the impact of start-up brands and more.

Open discussion led by innovative independent operators sharing best practices. Topics and speakers subject to change, but include:

• Hiring and training
• Experiential drinks
• No/Lo alcohol options
• Sourcing, analyzing and using data
• New technology

Help us choose the next two members of the EPG Beverage Incubator! Our finalists will showcase their brands and answer questions from our judging panel and audience live. Based on the results of a judges' vote and audience vote, two will join past winners Nouvie Non-Alcohol Wine, Good Trouble Bourbon, IV20 and Inspiro Tequila as incubator brands.

Cocktail Reception, Dinner and Awards Presentation honoring recipients of the following awards:

Top 100 Retailers
40 Under 40
Cheers BevX Awards
StateWays Control State Best Practices
Beverage Wholesaler Distributor Best Practices

Invited guests only