Brian Rosen is the founder of the Growth Beverage collective of brands, which includes Sprout Beverage, InvestBev, BevStrat, and Algoma Capital. The Growth Beverage ecosystem serves independent beverage brands at every stage of their growth journey - from inception through exit.
Brian has dedicated his career to the beverage industry and is globally regarded as a leading authority on navigating the three-tier system. He was the CEO of his own $100 million independent liquor retailer, worked as a partner in the adult beverage category at PwC (Pricewaterhouse Coopers), and served as the lead consultant of trade marketing for Anheuser-Busch. He is the recipient of numerous industry awards, including Forbes Best of the Web (2x), Retailer of the Year (3x), Wine Innovator of the Year, and was a Power Ranking Top 100 Global Beverage Leader.
Brian has an Executive Leadership degree from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business and a degree in marketing and finance from DePaul University. He is a member of Tiger 21 and YPO Gold and serves on the boards of Pilot Project Brewing, ReserveBar, Nomadica, and Fyllo.
Why did you start Growth Beverage?
I started Growth Beverage because I saw a gap in the market. There was no comprehensive solution that provided brands with everything they needed in one place. I wanted to create a platform where brands could access incubation, capital, and sales and marketing support, regardless of where they were in their brand evolution.
What do you look for in a founder?
Hunger, drive, patience, and the ability to accept advice.
What is the most common mistake you see from founders/brands?
The most common mistake I see from founders and brands is overspending on labor for sales and marketing without a deep understanding of their core audience or a well-defined messaging strategy.
What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be that of someone who made a positive impact in the alcoholic beverage industry by creating an environment that leveled the playing field for all brand founders, making it easier for them to succeed.
