New board chair named, Innovation Showcase debuts, and distributor excellence honored in Las Vegas
The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) wrapped up its 88th Annual Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas this week, gathering more than 2,800 beer distributors and beverage pros for three days of strategy, tech, and industry insight — all centered around this year’s theme of resilience through innovation.
“Over the past year, our industry has been tested, and beer distributors have shown our collective strength,” said Rebecca Maisel, outgoing NBWA Chair. “The last few years made clear that disruption in our industry is inevitable. But it also showed us that with disruption comes opportunity, and no group is better positioned to seize it than America’s beer distributors.”
The big headline: Steve Beykirch of Eagle Beverage Corporation in Kansas was named NBWA Board Chair, stepping in as Rebecca Maisel concludes her tenure. Beykirch emphasized the personal and social legacy of the industry, saying, “It’s not just a business, it’s a passion … Beer connects us to something bigger than ourselves.”
The convention was NBWA’s largest to date, featuring:
- The first-ever BIECC Innovation Showcase, with 17 companies presenting cutting-edge tools and trends
- A sold-out tradeshow floor with 250+ booths, including 88 first-time exhibitors
- 20 educational seminars spanning automation, leadership, sales strategies, regulatory updates, and more
Attendees also heard from a powerhouse speaker lineup, including NFL legend and Garage Beer co-owner Jason Kelce, Shark Tank’s Robert Herjavec, and industry leaders from Walmart and Constellation Brands.
The NBWA honored several standout members for their contributions:
- Life Service Awards: Bill Adams and Charles Kramer
- Trailblazer Awards: Sue McCollum and Manhattan Beer & Beverage
- Public Affairs Award: DeCrescente Distributing Co.
- PAC and Advocacy Awards: Chris Kaminski, Larry and L.J. Del Papa
Panel discussions explored everything from tax policy and portfolio diversification to distributor-led innovation and healthcare navigation.
Next up: NBWA’s 89th Annual Convention & Product Showcase heads to Orlando, Florida, October 11–14, 2026.
