RNDC makes ‘strategic reinvestment’ in workforce
The second-largest alcohol distributor in the US, Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), has created more than 100 new roles for its Texas business.
RNDC’s investment in its workforce is hoped to drive long-term growth of the company’s business in Texas, which it labelled as one of its ‘cornerstone markets’.
Taylor Sommer, chief sales and execution officer at RNDC, said: “After listening to our associates, customers, and supplier partners, one thing is clear: we need to strengthen our presence and performance in the market.
“Texas is a critical part of our foundation, and we’re proud to reinvest here. We’ve taken a close look at where we are – and more importantly, where we need to be.”
The new roles will be part of a ‘focused rebuild’ of RNDC’s on-trade teams.
The rebuild will see a clear separation between the wine and spirits divisions, so the company can deliver a more ‘tailored, strategic support’ in both categories – with faster decision-making, deeper collaboration and a higher-touch experience for customers and suppliers alike.
Other additions include restored TEG (The Estates Group) specialist roles, expanded regional account support and an increase in new associates joining the RNDC Texas team.
Sommer added: “This is a renewed commitment to our people, our partners, and our future. At RNDC, we believe that being the best distributor starts with being the best partner.
“This reinvestment is a bold step forward in that journey and we look forward to evaluating each market to identify our strongest opportunities.”
RNDC is searching for a permanent CEO after Nick Mehall stepped down in February. Bob Hendrickson is currently acting CEO in the interim.
RNDC’s decision to strengthen its workforce comes as a welcome bit of news in contrast to the swathe of job cuts and production pauses that have been implemented across the drinks industry this year.
Scotland’s Isle of Harris, Denmark’s Stauning and US-based Green River Distilling have all been forced to reduce their workforces recently, with supply outpacing demand.
There have also been reports that Moët Hennessy could reduce its employee numbers by 10%, marking a return to pre-pandemic staffing levels.
Devils River Distillery in Texas, meanwhile, backed by actor Dave Bautista, filed for bankruptcy earlier this month.
In other news from the state, the Senate is considering a bill to allow spirits-based ready-to-drink cocktails to be sold in the same stores as their beer and wine counterparts in Texas.
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