The volume of the U.S. beverage market totals over 200 billion liters of liquid. Alcohol is responsible for 16.5% of that total beverage volume, meaning the industry creates quite a few millionaires. How many of them are Black? Not many but Black people have the opportunity to change the narrative. On January 18 Atlanta will host the 2020 Black Owned Spirits Expo (B.O.S.E), which is billed as “the largest collection of Black owned spirit producers under one roof.
B.O.S.E will feature 25 cocktail beer and wine options to sample, introducing patrons to a range of premium Black owned adult beverage products available in the local market. The goal of the organizers is to replace the libations people normally consume with “high quality Black owned products that you may not know exist.” Master mixologists will be on hand to prepare hand crafted cocktails and patrons will have the opportunity to learn about Black owned spirits and how to purchase them. In addition, patrons will have the opportunity to experience other Black, local business vendors and sample culinary treats from top Black catering chefs across the city.
Production is the key. As Black entrepreneurs continue to produce and manufacture their own products, they position themselves for economic independence. That independence, however, is only attainable if Black consumers support them. Group economics means a serious, focused commitment to fulfill all needs of group members through purchasing from other members of the group. Certainly there are Black people who choose to consume alcohol (in moderation) and for those individuals, there are many Black owned producers who could be of service. This event simply allows consumers the opportunity to connect with those producers.
The expo will take place Jan 18 2020 at 2195 Defoor Hills NW in Atlanta. For more information see the expo’s website.