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.

This session will provide the latest in consumer trends data, plus case studies from retailers showcasing how they're using data and technology to improve their inventory and category management.

Hear from association executives from throughout the beverage industry, speaking about the power of banding together and the opportunities available to retailers who engage with advocacy groups. 

Meet fellow attendees and sponsors.

Members of all three tiers 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.

Experience the magic of Sicilian wines as we explore the rich history and delicious traditions of this Mediterranean paradise. Retailers are discovering how the island’s volcanic soils and ocean breezes provide the perfect climate to grow native grape varieties that are producing some of Italy’s most exciting and highly trending wines as category sales increase across the United States. You’ll have a chance to learn about this region with some of the classic wines such as Catarratto, Nero d’Avola, Grillo, Nerollo Mascalese, Frappato and others. Saluti!

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.

Our annual Women's Leadership Breakfast brings together executives from across the industry to talk about equal representation, mentoring opportunities, challenges in the workplace and more. Moderated by NABCA Communications Director Maggie Barchine, this discussion is not to be missed! All conference attendees (men and women) are invited to participate. 

Topics to include:

Cannabis / CBD Beverages
No/Low Alcohol
"Better for you" Beverages
Gen-Z Trends

Meet with fellow attendees and sponsors.

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.

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

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