Is Beverages Production/Distribution A Good Career Path? 10 Best Pros and Cons

Are you interested in working in the beverage production and distribution industry?

In this article, I have discussed in detail the pros and cons, is beverages production/distribution a good career path? I have discussed the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a career in the beverage production and distribution industry, the skills and qualifications you need to succeed, as well as job opportunities available.

So whether you’re just starting out or already have experience, read on to discover if beverage production/distribution is a good career path for you!

The Drawbacks of Beverages Production/Distribution Career

Although pursuing a career in the beverage production/distribution industry can have its advantages, there can be some challenges. People who work in this field must be highly knowledgeable about the beverage industry and up-to-date on the latest trends and regulations. They must also have good customer service skills and be able to manage a team of people. Additionally, those who own their own businesses must take on the added responsibility of managing all aspects of their business, including finances, marketing, and more. The 10 Principles of Food Industry Sustainability is a perfect book to start learning.

1. Upholding regulations: To stay legally compliant, workers must stay up-to-date on the latest rules and regulations around the production and distribution of beverages.
2. Opportunities for business ownership: Those who are experienced in this sector may be able to launch their own businesses or distribution companies with no prior overhead cost, besides finding a viable customer base.
3. High potential for good wages: Working in the beverage production and distribution field can bring a substantial salary.
4. Industry knowledge: Understanding the ins and outs of the beverage industry is important for success in the field.
5. Customer service skills: Having excellent customer service skills will help when dealing with clients and potential customers.
6. Team management skills: Workers must have strong leadership abilities to effectively manage teams when handling large orders or expanding operations within their businesses or companies.

Related: 15 Highest Paid Engineering Jobs in USA

What is Beverages Production/Distribution?

Beverages production and distribution involves making and distributing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This includes producing, importing, exporting, and distributing beer, wine, liquor, soda pop, energy drinks, iced teas, coffee, tea, milk products, water products, and other related items.

Many beverage producers also operate restaurants or bars that serve their products. Beverage distributors work with retailers to get their products into stores. They also work with manufacturers to get their products into the market.

This can be a very rewarding job, and can even lead to ownership of a business.

You should go through these books before starting your career:

• How To Brew: Everything You Need to Know to Brew Great Beer Every Time
• Food and Beverage Management in the Luxury Hotel Industry
• Beverage Manager’s Guide to Wines, Beers, and Spirits

Beverages Production/Distribution Career Benefits

1. Competitive Salaries: Beverage production and distribution jobs often come with competitive salaries.
2. Job Security: The beverage industry is a stable and growing field, meaning that job security is relatively high.
3. Variety: There are many types of jobs available in the beverage production and distribution industry, from delivery drivers to marketing managers, giving employees a lot of options for growth and advancement.
4. Flexible Schedules: Many beverage production and distribution jobs offer flexible hours, allowing employees to work around their busy schedules.
5. Professional Development Opportunities: The beverage industry is constantly evolving, and many employers offer professional development opportunities for their employees to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the field.
6. Family Benefits: Many employers in the beverage production and distribution industry offer benefits such as health insurance, holiday time, and retirement plans.

Top 10 Best Paying Jobs in Beverages Production/Distribution

The best paying jobs in beverage production and distribution are typically managerial positions. These include jobs such as production manager, sales manager, marketing manager, and operations manager.

These positions require a lot of responsibility and often involve overseeing the entire production and distribution process. They also require a great deal of knowledge and expertise in the beverage industry.

1. Beverage Plant Manager: $90,000 – $150,000
2. Beverage Production Supervisor: $60,000 – $100,000
3. Beverage Distribution Manager: $50,000 – $90,000
4. Beverage Quality Control Manager: $40,000 – $80,000
5. Beverage Sales Representative: $30,000 – $70,000
6. Beverage Logistics Manager: $30,000 – $70,000
7. Beverage Marketing Manager: $30,000 – $70,000
8. Beverage Warehouse Manager: $25,000 – $60,000
9. Beverage Packaging Manager: $20,000 – $50,000
10. Beverage Delivery Driver: $15,000 -$35,000

How to Start A Career In Beverages Production/Distribution Industry?

1. Research the Market: Before jumping into the beverage industry, it is important to research the different types of jobs available, the qualifications required for each role, and any certifications or licences you may need.
2. Network: Networking is key in any industry, but especially in the beverage production and distribution industry. Reach out to contacts in your field, or attend events related to the industry to make connections and learn about potential job opportunities.
3. Education & Training: Many jobs in the beverage production and distribution industry require specialized education or training, such as a degree in food science or a certification from an accredited program. Consider taking classes or earning certifications that will help you stand out from other applicants.
4. Get Experience: Consider volunteering or taking on internships with local breweries, wineries, distilleries, etc., to gain hands-on experience and knowledge of the industry.
5. Apply: Once you have done your research and gained experience in the industry, it’s time to apply for jobs. Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the position you are applying for, highlighting any relevant experience and qualifications you have.
6. Follow Up: After applying, follow up with potential employers to show your interest in the job. Reaching out can also give you an opportunity to ask questions or learn more about the company and its culture.

How to Get a Certificate for Beverages Production/Distribution?

1. Research the Institutions: Start by researching different certification programs and courses available to you. Consider factors such as cost, time commitment, and the type of certification you will receive.
2. Choose a Program: Once you have researched different certification options, choose a program that meets your needs and interests. Consider factors such as cost, time commitment, and the type of certification you will receive.
3. Enroll: Enroll in the program of your choice. Most programs require an application fee or tuition to be paid before enrollment can be completed.
4. Complete the Coursework: Complete all coursework required for your chosen program. This may include online courses, hands-on labs, or written exams depending on the program you have decided on.
5. Receive Certification: Upon successful completion of all coursework requirements, you will receive a certificate of completion from your chosen program, certifying that you are qualified to work in the beverage production/distribution industry.

Best Institutions to Pursue Beverages Production/Distribution Courses

Cornell University (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University is one of the top universities in the United States and offers a variety of beverage production/distribution courses. The School of Hotel Administration at Cornell offers a Certificate in Wine, Beer, and Spirits Management which provides students with an in-depth understanding of the international wine, beer, and spirits industry.

Additionally, Cornell’s Food Science Department offers a range of courses related to beverage production/distribution, such as Brewing Science and Technology and an Introduction to Beverage Science.

Finally, Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers courses such as Agribusiness Management and Food Distribution Systems, which provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the food distribution system from farm to plate.

Penn State World Campus (University Park, PA)

Penn State World Campus offers a variety of courses related to beverage production/distribution. The World Campus offers an online Certificate in Wine, Beer, and Spirits Management which provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the beverage industry.

Additionally, the World Campus offers an online course called Introduction to Beverage Science which covers topics such as fermentation, distillation, and filtration.

Finally, Penn State’s Department of Food Science also offers a range of courses related to beverage production/distribution such as Brewing Science and Technology and Food Distribution Systems.

University of California Davis (Davis, CA)

The University of California, Davis is one of the top universities in the United States for studying beverage production/distribution.

The Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis offers a range of courses related to wine production/distribution, including Winemaking Technology and Wines of California.

Additionally, UC Davis’ College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers courses such as Agribus.

University of Georgia (Athens, GA)

The University of Georgia offers an extensive range of courses related to beverage production/distribution. The Department of Food Science and Technology offers courses such as Beer Brewing Technology and Wine Production.

Additionally, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers courses such as Beverage Management and Marketing and Fermentation Science. Finally, the College of Family and Consumer Sciences offers a course called Alcoholic Beverage Regulation.

Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)

Michigan State University offers a variety of courses related to beverage production/distribution.

The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition offers classes such as Brewing Technology, Wine Production, and Quality Control in Food Processing.

Additionally, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers courses such as Beverage Marketing, Fermentation Science, and Food Processing Technology.

Virginia Tech (Blacksburg, VA)

Virginia Tech offers a variety of courses related to beverage production/distribution. The Department of Food Science and Technology offers courses such as Beer Brewing Technology, Wine Production, and Quality Control in Food Processing.

Additionally, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers courses such as Beverage Marketing, Fermentation Science, and Food Processing Technology. The College of Business also offers a course called Alcoholic Beverage Regulation.

Other Colleges to Pursue Certificates of beverages production/distribution

1. Pennsylvania College of Technology (Williamsport, PA)
2. Purdue University Global (West Lafayette, IN)
3. University of Wisconsin-Stout (Menomonie, WI)
4. Santa Rosa Junior College (Santa Rosa, CA)

Top Companies Hiring for Beverages Production/Distribution

1. Anheuser-Busch InBev: Anheuser-Busch InBev is the world’s largest producer of beer and one of the world’s leading beverage companies. They are dedicated to brewing the best beers and creating the best experiences for their customers.
2. Diageo: Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol, with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer, and wine categories. They have a wide range of career opportunities available in production, distribution, sales, marketing, finance and more.
3. PepsiCo: PepsiCo is one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. They have a portfolio of 22 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in annual retail sales. Their product portfolio includes many popular beverages such as Pepsi, Gatorade, Mountain Dew and Tropicana.
4. Coca-Cola North America: The Coca-Cola Company is one of the world’s largest beverage companies, with products sold in over 200 countries around the world. Their product portfolio includes iconic brands such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and Minute Maid.
5. Constellation Brands: Constellation Brands is a leading beverage alcohol company with a portfolio of more than 100 brands across wine, beer, and spirits. They offer a wide range of career opportunities in production, distribution, sales, and marketing.
6. MillerCoors: MillerCoors is one of the largest brewers in the United States, with a portfolio of popular beer brands such as Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Blue Moon. They offer a variety of career opportunities in brewing, marketing, sales and more.
7. Pabst Brewing Company: Pabst Brewing Company is a historic American beer company with roots dating back to 1844. They offer a range of popular beers including PBR, Old Milwaukee, and Colt 45. They also offer career opportunities in brewing, marketing, distribution and more.
8. Heineken USA: Heineken USA is the American division of the Dutch brewing giant Heineken International. They brew and distribute a range of popular beer brands such as Heineken, Amstel Light, and Newcastle Brown Ale. They offer career opportunities in brewing, marketing, distribution and more.
9. The Boston Beer Company: The Boston Beer Company is a craft brewery founded in 1984 by Jim Koch. They brew a variety of popular beers including Sam Adams, Angry Orchard, and Twisted Tea. They offer career opportunities in brewing, marketing, distribution and more.
10. Molson Coors Beverage Company: Molson Coors Beverage Company is a multinational brewing company with roots dating back to 1786. They brew and distribute a range of popular beer brands such as Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Blue Moon. They offer career opportunities in brewing, marketing, sales and more.

FAQs About Beverages Production/Distribution As A Good Career Path

Conclusion

Beverages production and distribution can be a great career path. There is a wide range of opportunities available in the industry, including positions in brewing, marketing, sales, distribution and more.

It’s also a very competitive field, with many companies investing heavily in their brands and products to stay ahead of the competition. With the right qualifications and experience, you can find a rewarding career path in this sector.