Get ready for an exciting event that connects beverage industry professionals! BevNET Live NYC 2026 is set to take place on June 10 and 11, bringing together leaders from various sectors to share insights and foster valuable relationships.
Walmart, Morrisons, and Asahi are the latest to join an impressive array of retail and investment hosts participating in 1:1 meetings at BevNET Live NYC 2026. Walmart stands as the world’s leading grocery retailer, while Morrisons ranks among the largest supermarket chains in the U.K. Asahi is recognized globally for its exceptional portfolio in beer, spirits, and soft drinks.
Register now to secure pre-scheduled, private meetings with these and other key players in the beverage industry, who are ready to address your challenges and offer valuable guidance. Meeting requests will be evaluated and selected by the hosts for mutual productivity. Note that availability is limited.
Below are the notable hosts who have recently joined:
Natalia Narloch, Buying Manager, Soft Drinks, Morrisons
Natalia works in the soft drinks segment at Morrisons and holds a degree from the University of Leeds. Her career has focused on grocery buying, initially in confectionery before transitioning to soft drinks. She is based in Bradford/Leeds.
Chris Beattie, Senior Buyer, Soft Drinks, Morrisons
As a senior buyer specializing in functional soft drinks, water, and juice at Morrisons, Chris manages supplier relationships and commercial negotiations. He is based in Bradford and is a qualified member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
Kristian Atkinson, Senior Buyer, Soft Drinks, Morrisons
Kristian oversees commercial trading and product selection in the soft drinks category at Morrisons, and works out of the Greater Leeds area.
Dee Charlemagne, Senior Director of Emerging Brands, Walmart
Dee leads the Emerging Brands initiative at Walmart, focusing on partnerships with innovative and growth-oriented brands. She co-founded AVEC Drinks and has extensive experience in brand strategy and growth.
Leslie Osorio, Senior Beverage Merchant, Shelf-Stable Juice, Walmart
Leslie is currently spearheading the Shelf-Stable Juice business at Walmart, concentrating on strategies that enhance value and growth for customers. She has previously managed Protein Shakes and Bars, cultivating her passion for fostering emerging brands.
Zhun Che, Investor, Asahi Group Beverages & Innovation
Zhun invests in emerging beverage brands and innovation at Asahi. He possesses a diverse background in venture investing, food and agriculture, and consumer growth strategies.
Attendees will also have the chance to engage with the following buyers and investors:
Retail Buyers & Operators
- Samantha Fletcher, Senior Category Merchant, Whole Foods Market
- John Lawson, Senior Local Forager, Whole Foods Market
- Nicolletta Payne, Senior Director of Merchandising, The Vitamin Shoppe
- Randy Ornstein, Senior Director of Beverages, Gopuff
- Stephen Jabour, Chief Sales and Operating Officer, Spec’s
- Jon Halper, Owner/CEO, Top Ten Liquors
- David Germick, Category Merchant, Wegmans Food Markets
Investors
- Mark Rampolla, Co-Managing Partner, GroundForce Capital
- Elly Truesdell, Managing Partner, New Fare Partners
- Maddie Serviente, Head of Investment Team, The Angel Group
- Alyssa Arnold, Managing Partner, The Angel Group
- Webb Knudsen, Vice President, Partnership Capital Growth
- Caroline Lippman, Vice President, Coefficient Capital
- Dr. Sebastian Dreher, Venture Manager US, Döhler
- Brad Barnhorn, Board Member & Strategic Advisor
- Dace Graham, Managing Partner, 1731 MGMT
- Hank Spring, Managing Partner, KarpReilly
- Kyle Fitzpatrick, CEO, Paperboy Ventures
The event is happening next week! Over 625 beverage industry professionals are already registered.
Register for BevNET Live NYC 2026 >>
About BevNET Live
BevNET Live is the leading event in the beverage industry, uniting brands, distributors, retailers, investors, and service providers to discuss future developments. Featuring distinguished speakers and the popular New Beverage Showdown, this event attracts numerous brands from across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Walmart, Morrisons, and Asahi will host 1:1 meetings at BevNET Live NYC 2026.
- The event occurs on June 10 and 11, 2026.
- Networking opportunities with over 625 industry professionals are available.
- Meeting requests will be reviewed by hosts for mutual benefit.
- Notable speakers include buyers from major retailers and influential investors.
FAQ
What is BevNET Live?
BevNET Live is a premier event for the beverage industry, facilitating connections among brands, distributors, retailers, and investors.
When will BevNET Live NYC 2026 take place?
The event is scheduled for June 10 and 11, 2026.
How can I register for the event?
You can register for BevNET Live NYC 2026 on the event’s official website.
Who are some of the key speakers or hosts?
Key hosts include representatives from Walmart, Morrisons, and Asahi, along with notable investors and retail buyers.
