Ben E. Keith Beverages

Introducing Jerry Lockett! This Specialty Driver Sales Rep in Palestine got his start with Ben E. Keith almost 25 years ago as a Sales and Service Rep Helper. Favorite Part of Role: Jerry is always looking to be of service and relishes the opportunity to help his customers with anything they need. Fun Fact: Strongly devoted to his faith, Jerry is the youngest trustee as Deacon of his church. Favorite Memory: Having learned a lot as a helper, Jerry’s favorite moment came as he earned the independence to have his own route as a BEK Driver Sales Rep. According to Jody Oden, Area Sales Manager - Sales and Service DOT, “After working with Jerry for over 20 years, his friendship, loyalty and dedication to not only me but to BEK is matched by few. Jerry shows up to work on time every day, always does what is asked of him and is ready, willing, and able to tackle the day that is in front of him to get the job done. Jerry is a company man and his leadership and mentoring to our new and younger guys here in the Service Department goes above and beyond his actual job description. Jerry’s faith and what he does for his church and community is unmatched. Way to go Jerry! I am very proud and happy for you.” Jerry has developed a lot of wisdom over the years, and to new employees, he says, “Always be learning. Don’t let anyone discourage you from accomplishing your goals.” Thanks for the encouragement, Jerry, and congratulations!

Say hello to Bobby Hudgens! This Sales and Service Driver in West Texas, focused on Lubbock and Amarillo, is coming up on his fourth year with Ben E. Keith. Favorite Part of Role: Forging relationships, both with his team and with accounts, makes his work enjoyable for Bobby. How He Stays Motivated: “Every day is a new day to be better than you were yesterday.” Favorite Memory: A real game-changing moment for Bobby was when he got his own truck. According to Dustin Brown, Area Sales Manager, West Texas, “Bobby is the epitome of a great driver. Punctual, personable, hard-working, great communicator across all departments and areas, and selfless. He is always looking to do what’s best for the team and the company. He is the linchpin between Lubbock and Amarillo. I don’t know what we’d do without him.” Wise words from Bobby: “Take pride in all you do, build and strengthen relationships. Know your equipment and how to take care of it. When you take care of your equipment it will take care of you. When you do that it will make everything else run smoother, from your team, customers and profitability.” Thank you for that advice, Bobby! We can tell that you embody those words and lead by example. Here’s to you!

Introducing Barry Simon! Having been with Ben E. Keith for over 40 years now, Barry started as a Warehouse worker and now does Dock Sales for Dallas Beverage. Favorite Part of Role: Coworkers, clients and everyone in between - that’s what keeps Barry coming back day after day, especially Pete. Fun Fact: Pull! Barry loves shooting clays. He’s your go-to guy if you’re looking for pointers to hit more pigeons yourself. Favorite Memory: A long career with BEK has given Barry quite a few fond memories, some he can’t mention in polite company. Among the tamer ones are going out on keg routes with one of our first diesel tractor-trailers. According to Carlos Ruiz, Assistant Warehouse Manager, “Barry is an awesome person, always there to lend a hand. From the first time I worked with him, he has always treated me like a friend.” Thanks for lending us your expertise and hard work for all these years - cheers to you, Barry! 🍻

Wishing you joy, laughter, and cheer this holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Merry & Bright! Wishing everyone safe and happy holidays ahead!

Say hello to Isaac Correa! This Operations Supervisor in San Antonio got his start with Ben E. Keith over 14 years ago as a Draft Tech. Favorite Part of Role: Isaac loves the challenges that crop up from day to day, when he’s dealt a bad hand and can score a win against all odds. Fun Fact: With time, patience and tons of practice, Isaac has mastered the Rubik’s cube. You’d make his day if you asked him to show you. Favorite Memory: With Jingle Bells playing in the background and seasonal brews flowing, Isaac makes fresh fond memories every year at the holiday party. According to Blake Loftin, Sales Manager, “There isn’t anything Isaac won’t or can’t do as our Operations Supervisor. It doesn’t matter what day or time it is, or what the challenge is, he finds a way to get the job done and does it extremely well. In addition to exceeding expectations, he also makes us all laugh while doing it.” We’re lucky to have you as our first Operations Supervisor in San Antonio - and congrats on earning your Class A license. Here’s to you, Isaac!

Cheers!

Today, we celebrate 118 years of Ben E. Keith! From the partners we work with, the customers we service, and employees who are family, we are proud to continue delivering quality service and unique culture every day. Here’s to the past, present, and future of our journey. Thank you to all that have been a part of our story and who will be in the coming years. Happy 118 birthday Ben E. Keith!

We honor our incredible colleagues who have served our nation and continue to serve. You truly make a difference. Your commitment to the country and to our team is an inspiration. Happy Veterans Day 🇺🇲 #VeteransDay2024

Introducing Emmanuel Rendon! This Sales Representative in Commerce got his start with Ben E. Keith over 12 years ago as a Warehouse Stacker. Favorite Part of Role: Connecting with customers makes it all worthwhile for Emmanuel, knowing the relationships he has formed are solid. Fun Fact: A football player in his past, Emmanuel used to kick 60-yard field goals. We bet he still can! Favorite Memory: A huge achievement, Emmanuel really loved winning Most Improved Market and getting tickets to a Cowboys vs. Eagles game. He took his then girlfriend with him - and now she’s his wife! According to Dwayne Sears, Sales Manager, “Emmanuel is a remarkable sales rep that is a results-oriented and goal-driven employee. He is a natural born leader and is willing to help ALL employees from the warehouse, sales and service, sales reps and even me! He helps to keep me on my toes. Emmanuel is a multi-winner of the BEK Champions program and is a true treasure for BEK Commerce.” Wow! Three-time winner of the Champions program - a massive congrats from us on what you’ve accomplished and continue to do for your team. Cheers to you, Emmanuel!