The MAFFEO DRINKS Podcast

Paul Thomas, known as 'the king of insights' at Suntory Global Spirits, joins to share his expertise on market research. He champions the idea of marketers stepping out of their comfort zones to witness consumer behavior firsthand. The discussion reveals the pitfalls of quick research methods and stresses the importance of occasion-based marketing over traditional demographics. Thomas also emphasizes balancing qualitative and quantitative data for better insights, urging marketers to foster curiosity in understanding drink brands across varied environments.

Racheal Vaughan Jones, part of the marketing team at Compass Box, dives into how the brand redefines whisky by positioning itself as true 'whisky makers.' She discusses the recent transformation of their core range into four intuitive flavor profiles and the philosophy behind their 'Long Live Interesting' branding. Racheal also highlights the award-winning 'Hedonism' limited edition, showcasing its collaboration with female artists. The conversation reveals innovative local marketing strategies and the emotional storytelling that enhances consumer connections.

David Gluckman, a drinks industry icon and author of "That Sh*t Will Never Sell," shares his journey of creating legendary brands like Baileys and Ciroc. He dives into the flaws of traditional consumer research and emphasizes the value of hands-on testing and liquid excellence in product development. David discusses the critical nature of ownership in brand success and how great beverages can thrive without conventional marketing. Tune in for engaging stories and insights that blend creativity with business savvy.

Join this episode with Shawn Soole from the Post Shift Podcast In this episode, Chris shares invaluable insights on how small brands, such as bars, restaurants, distilleries, and breweries, can effectively build their brand. From understanding the importance of local success before expanding to managing relationships with importers and distributors, Chris breaks down the fundamentals of brand building. They also discuss the challenges and strategies for maintaining authenticity while scaling, the role of passion versus business in the drinks industry, and navigating the complexities of the B2B2B2C market. Whether you’re a newcomer or an established player in the beverage world, this episode is filled with actionable advice to help you succeed.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:31 Guest Introduction: Chris Maffeo02:04 Chris Maffeo's Background and Career Journey04:58 Brand-Building Fundamentals10:58 Challenges and Strategies in the Craft Spirits Industry16:49 Scaling and Distribution Insights19:11 Balancing Passion and Business25:06 Entrepreneurial Advice and Future Plans32:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Roberta Mariani, Advocacy Director for Savoia and Italicus Spirits, brings a wealth of hospitality expertise to the conversation. She discusses the rise of aperitivo culture, tracing its growth from niche to mainstream. Roberta emphasizes the importance of brand advocacy and educating consumers about unique production methods. The role of Italian bartenders in shaping global drinking habits is highlighted, along with the significance of well-being within the industry. Listeners gain valuable insights into cocktail creation and the push for a more inclusive bar environment.

In this engaging discussion, Sophie Cookson, a seasoned liquor industry expert and founder of Craft & Culture UAE, dives into the nuances of the Middle Eastern market. She highlights the transformative landscape in Dubai and the critical role of duty-free in brand marketing. Sophie shares strategies for small brands facing challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of local presence and community support. Tune in for insights on navigating regulations and empowering bartenders, all while exploring the dynamic liquor scene of the Gulf region.

Francois Monti, a cocktail writer and the owner of Amarguería, dives into the complexities of the cocktail industry. He discusses the disparity between elite bars and emerging markets, stressing the importance of local bars in cultivating cocktail culture. Francois highlights the critical need for skilled bartenders and foundational taste education, while advocating for mentorship and diverse career paths within the profession. He emphasizes the benefit of strong trade relationships to elevate cocktail quality and enrich the overall drinking experience for consumers.

Nick Guerrieri, founder of Chelly, brings a fresh twist to limoncello from Arizona. He discusses transforming traditional recipes by reducing sugar and viscosity, making limoncello versatile for cocktails. Guerrieri emphasizes grassroots sampling and personal storytelling as key marketing strategies. His distinctive branding, including signature lemon shirts, sets Chelly apart. He shares insights on blending consumer feedback with local pride to expand his brand's reach, underscoring the power of community connections in the beverage industry.

Join Michael Vachon, co-founder of Maverick Drinks, and Soren Hansen, sales director at Bemakers, as they dive into the complexities of beverage distribution in the European market. They explore how to choose the right distributors, tackle pricing challenges, and maximize event activations. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of direct-to-consumer strategies and building strong relationships within the industry. With Emily Pennington moderating, listeners gain essential insights into launching and growing beverage brands in a competitive landscape.

Michael Ballantyne, the founder of Storywood Tequila, is on a mission to change the game with the world's first single malt whisky barrel-aged tequila. He shares how pivoting to whisky bars helped him connect with consumers who appreciate the nuances of oak and char. Michael emphasizes selective distribution to build momentum and a diverse product line that caters to varying tastes. His journey is marked by personal engagement and storytelling, forging deep connections within the spirits community.