Press Release:

(St. Louis, MO) – Demonstrating its commitment to and investment in the craft beer business, Missouri Beverage (MoBev) announced today the appointment of three craft beer specialists to its new Craft Beer Team. In teamwork, the trio will manage the company’s long-term growth goals for its craft beer portfolio.

“We are excited about the level of talent we’ve attracted to this new Craft Beer Team,” said Bill Reichhardt, President of Missouri Beverage. “These individuals are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable people in the business. They will really help drive the craft beer explosion across the state.”

Increasing specialization, the new Craft Beer Team unites beer experts who are proficient in sales and brand management. Collectively, they will oversee the marketing and sales of the craft beer brands from the distributor’s portfolio while also leading opportunities for business development. The newly-appointed craft beer experts include:

Jill Sites, Craft Beer Sales Manager: Joining the company from her previous role as Chief of Operations for Greenbush Brewing Company is Jill Sites. A marketing, merchandising and brand management talent, Jill was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the growing brewery. As Craft Beer Sales Manager, Jill’s expertise will contribute to building the company’s craft beer brands while helping recruit new ones to market. She will oversee the Craft Beer Team and work closely with Derek Holmes, VP of Sales.

Jim McGinn, Craft Beer Specialist: A member of the MoBev team for more than a decade, Jim McGinn steps into the role of Craft Beer Specialist overseeing the St. Louis region. A skilled sales consultant, Jim’s strong relationships and knowledge combine to help develop brands, gain market share and grow new business. Jim is also a Certified Beer Server and will be instrumental in servicing the craft beer needs of the on- and off-premise accounts under his purview.

Andy Jenkins, Craft Beer Specialist: As Craft Beer Specialist, Andy Jenkins’ diverse skills will be dedicated to the company’s on- and off-premise accounts within the Kansas City region. A certified Cicerone, Andy has significant knowledge of draft system operations and maintenance, beer styles, beer pairings, beer history and brewing process. Previously, Andy was Brand & Content Community Relations Manager at Boulevard Brewing Company.

Current brands within the portfolio include Founders Brewing Co., Left Hand Brewing Co., North Coast Brewing Co., The Civil Life Brewing Co., Ska Brewing, New Holland Brewing, Arcadia Brewing Co. and Vanberg & DeWulf, among others.

“It is no secret craft beer is a growing category and there are great opportunities to expand in the market,” continued Reichhardt. “These experts can really help accounts throughout Missouri learn about and develop their craft beer offerings. ”

Since April 2013, the company has made several investments including the appointment of 7 new leaders as well as a partnership with Wirtz Beverage Group and McLane Company, Inc.

About Missouri Beverage

Missouri Beverage (MoBev) is a full-service distributor of spirits, wines, beers, juices and soda throughout the state. Though a joint venture, Wirtz Beverage Group, a Chicago-based leading North American spirits, wine and beer wholesaler, and McLane Company, Inc., a Texas-based global foodservice and supply chain leader, hold a minority stake in the company.