Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/912565
14 / the tasting panel / december 2017 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT R epublic National Distributing Company, LLC (RNDC) and Breakthru Beverage Group, LLC (BBG) recently announced the execution of a Letter of Intent to combine their assets and operations. "The merger of RNDC and Breakthru will create strategic opportunities that will benefit our associates and our business partners in a rapidly changing and highly competitive marketplace. Much more than a growth opportunity, we are entering this venture to create something that is different, sustainable, and transformative," said RNDC President and CEO Tom Cole. "Together, our deep bench of focused, diverse associates will bring great and unique advantages to our suppliers, our customers, and the consumers who enjoy the products we represent." Breakthru Beverage Group President & CEO Greg Baird commented, "Breakthru looks forward to join- ing forces with RNDC to establish an even stronger foundation of industry knowledge, talent, history, and heritage. We see this as the launch pad to bring innovation to life and to usher in a new era for our business and industry." "Across North America, the combined company of RNDC and Breakthru will benefit from a broadly expanded footprint, a passionate and creative team, and an uncompromising commitment to providing innovation, value, and service to all our stakehold- ers," Cole added. Beverage alcohol industry trends and the greater consumer and retail environment show there are compelling reasons for RNDC and BBG to expand their footprints and to become more responsive to the marketplace by recognizing the best practices and efficiencies of each business. Continuous innovation and agility are keys to wholesaler success as retail customers grow, and beverage alcohol sup- pliers seek to be increasingly nimble, efficient, and responsive to evolving consumer demands. Even beyond the beverage alcohol industry, the retail marketplace is changing significantly. The merger of RNDC and BBG will also facilitate invest- ments in technology that will enhance all aspects of their business, from supply chain management, customer and supplier connectivity, e-commerce, predictive analytics, digital marketing, data trans- parency, consumer experience, and operational efficiency. Strengthened by their diverse experience and perspectives, best-in-class talent, and an unwav- ering commitment to innovation, the combination of RNDC and BBG will address key areas to provide a more agile service model for customers and suppli- ers across the United States and Canada. Under the terms of the Letter of Intent, Tom Cole will serve as Chief Executive Officer; Bob Hendrickson as Chief Operating Officer; Danny Wirtz as Chief Growth and Strategy Officer; and Greg Baird as Chief Integration Officer. E. Lloyd Sobel's role will be announced along with other key senior management appointments prior to the close of the transaction. The transaction is expected to close late in the second calendar quarter of 2018, and is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Across North America, the combined company of RNDC and Breakthru will benefit from a broadly expanded footprint, a passionate and creative team, and an uncompromising commitment to providing innovation, value, and service to all our stakeholders." Republic National Distributing Company and Breakthru Beverage Group to Form $12 Billion Company with North American Footprint