Coming Event: U.S. Drinks Conference Focuses on Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing is on tap as a central discussion topic at the U.S. Drinks Conference, which will take place Oct. 12 and Oct. 13 in New York.

Gary Vaynerchuk, whose daily videos at Wine Library TV are viewed by over 90,000 visitors, will give a presentation on how social media is helping suppliers and retailers alike connect with a new generation of wine, spirit and beer consumers. A panel discussion exploring the subject in more detail will follow.

“Our panelists represent the diversity of voices shaping the conversation that is happening online 24/7,” said moderator Steve Raye, managing partner of Avon, Conn.-based Brand Action Team, one of the conference organizers, along with Next Level Marketing in Westport, Conn., and Manhasset, N.Y.-based MHW Ltd.

The panel will consist of Tyler Colman, also known as “Dr. Vino,” author of the book “Wine Politics” and an influential wine industry blogger; Colleen Graham, editor of the popular Cocktails page at About.com; and Christian McMahon, Heineken USA’s CMO.

Notes Next Level Marketing president Mike Ginley, “There’s a lot of misunderstanding of social media marketing and how to balance the investment in those tools with traditional marketing methods.”

Added MHW Ltd. President John Beaudette: “We get asked questions about social media marketing every day, and I think these sessions will provide the insights conference attendees need to really capitalize on these tools.”

Sponsors of the conference are Beverage Media Group, Beverage Information Group, Nightclub and Bar Magazine, Tasting Panel Magazine, Bar Business Magazine, Drinks International, IWSR, Beverage Industry Magazine, Ultimate Beverage Challenge, JF Hillebrand, Nixon Peabody, Overton, Western Carriers, BevForce and In The Mix Magazine.

A detailed agenda, roster of speakers and registration and hotel information is available at www.USDrinksConference.com.