November Heralds the Holidays

November’s annual gift and buying guide is here. What can the industry expect to see in terms of gift-giving from shoppers? Beverage professionals from retail shops, distributors and restaurants give insight into five trends that will impact holiday buying behaviors. The issue also offers an annual gallery roundup of views into newly available VAPs for stocking on store shelves. Click here to flip through.

The pages are filled yet again with recaps showcasing wholesaler portfolio offerings around Connecticut and Rhode Island at events from fundraisers and cocktail competitions to trade shows and brand launches. A new month’s recap of events highlights a busy fall. “Retail Review” visits Centerville Liquors in Warwick and while a venture to Vernon visits with Lafayette Wine & Liquors. Association News from CPSA, CRA, RIHA, and RILOC communicate from within our local trade community of on- and off-premise advocates. Our local wine columnist offers “Great Wines of Galicia” for an education read, while on-premise talks transition. “Serving Up” sips from Norwalk’s Flying Scotsman extensive selections, while Riffraff Bookstore + Bar blends literacy and mixology in a delightful blend.

As the holidays approach, I am always reminded that we work in the strange space of past, present and future. Staying in the moment is a grounding force in the crush of the ever-present deadlines and targets that are part of this beverage industry we inhabit so fully, and in life itself. Breathe a sec and carry on. Congratulate yourselves on the hard work you (we) do every day. Cheers!