The VIBE Supplier Excellence Awards were presented on Thursday, March 10 at the VIBE Conference in Las Vegas, with David Commer of Commer Beverage Consulting doing the honors. Created in recognition of beverage supplier partners demonstrating the ultimate professionalism and knowledge of their accounts' beverage business, the awards honor those delivering stellar assistance to these customers in reaching their beverage sales and marketing objectives. Winners are selected by chain beverage operators, from a list of pre-qualified companies in each category that have been approved by the operator members of the VIBE Advisory Council. The judging criteria includes innovation and creativity, understanding of the operator's needs, high service levels in areas such as communication and timely response, business-building programs and support, as well as training programs and support.
The 2011 VIBE Supplier Excellence Awards Winners are:
Beer -- Large Company: Anheuser-Busch/InBev; Small Company: Samuel Adams
Wine -- Large Company: E.& J. Gallo Winery; Small Company: Ste. Michelle Winery
Spirits -- Large Company: Beam Global Spirits & Wine; Small Company: SKYY Spirits
Non-Alcohol/Mixers -- Large Company: The Coca-Cola Company; Small Company: Monin Gourmet Flavorings
Allied Suppliers -- Vitamix
Consultants & Agencies -- Patrick Henry Creative Promotions
Congratulations to all the winners!