Press Release

Press Release Nov 12, 2025

NBWA’s Next Generation Conference Connects Rising Beer Industry Leaders

Kansas City, Mo. – The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) this week concluded its 13^th Annual Next Generation Success in Leadership Conference. More than 200 rising beer industry leaders from across the country convened in Kansas City this week to build leadership skills, exchange ideas and learn about industry trends.

“The future of our industry will be determined by leaders who can adapt quickly and drive innovation as the beer industry continues to evolve,” said NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser. “NBWA’s Next Generation Group provides emerging leaders with the tools, skills, connections and confidence they need to strengthen our industry for years to come.”

At this year’s conference, attendees heard from an exceptional lineup of speakers offering insight into leadership, data-driven business strategy and the evolving beverage marketplace. Speakers included Kendall Gammon, former Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl long snapper; Branden Muhl, CEO of Mahaska; Steve Farber, bestselling author of The Radical Leap and founder of The Extreme Leadership Institute; and brothers David and Jason Steinman of Beer Marketer’s INSIGHTS.

“More than a decade after it began, the Next Generation Conference continues to be an essential gathering for emerging beer distributor leaders,” said Kim McKinnish, NBWA Chief Operating Officer. “It is inspiring to see talented men and women from across the industry bring fresh ideas, energy and innovation that will drive our industry forward into an exciting future.”

Additionally, attendees participated in educational sessions that addressed some of the most pressing issues facing the industry today. From exploring the impact of artificial intelligence and economic trends to strengthening leadership culture, operational efficiency and long-term profitability, attendees left with practical tools to navigate a changing industry.

“Each year, the Next Gen Conference demonstrates the vision of the new leaders shaping our industry’s future,” said newly announced Next Gen Group Chair Nick Bland of Olympic Eagle. “Our members left Kansas City energized to bring the same sense of purpose they found here back to their companies and communities.”

Next Gen participants also packed 1,300 kits filled with toys, games and art supplies to donate to Children’s Mercy Hospital and enjoyed performances by the Kansas City Chiefs’ Rumble Drumline and Cheerleaders.

Next year’s Next Generation conference is being held in San Diego from November 9-11. For more information about the Next Gen Group click here.

###

The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) represents America’s 3,000 independent beer distributors who service every state, congressional district, and media market across the country. Licensed at the federal and state levels, beer distributors get bottles, cans, cases, and kegs from a brewer or importer to stores, restaurants, and other licensed retail accounts through a transparent and accountable regulatory system.

Distributors build brands of all sizes – from familiar domestic beers to new startup labels and imports from around the world – and generate enormous consumer choice while supporting more than 135,000 quality jobs in their home communities. Beer distributors work locally to keep communities safe by sponsoring programs to promote responsible consumption, combat drunk driving, and reduce underage drinking.