101 | Drinks Strategies & Brand Advocacy with Kaitlin Wilkes

Summary

Join host Chris Maffeo as he chats with Kait Wilkes, an industry veteran with 15 years of global experience (just nominated #40 on the Drinks International Top 100 List). The episode was recorded during the Mirror Hospitality Expo, hosted by Mirror Bar in Bratislava (Just nominated #62 on 50 Best Bars).Kait shares her journey from bartending to advocacy, offering insights on navigating the drinks and hospitality industry. They discuss the different perspectives between bartenders and brands, the importance of a well-thought-out drink strategy, and how smaller brands can thrive. Kait also emphasizes the importance of long-term relationships, authenticity, and mentorship in the industry. Tune in to understand how to build a sustainable brand bottom-up and hear Kaits' expert advice for upcoming bartenders and brand advocates.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Maffeo Drinks Podcast00:26 Guest Introduction: Kait's Journey in the Drinks Industry03:35 The Disconnect Between Drinks and Hospitality Industries05:53 Building Authentic Brand Partnerships11:54 Challenges and Strategies for Small Brands18:26 Long-Term Brand Advocacy and Relationship Building21:25 Crafting a Purposeful Drink Strategy22:01 The Role of Drink Strategy in Brand Promotion22:32 Simplifying Cocktails for the Consumer24:22 Understanding Drink Trends and Market Adaptation28:07 Supporting Bartenders and Their Career Growth31:48 Navigating Cocktail Competitions37:04 Final Thoughts and Authentic Connections