If you aren't in the room, you aren't on the truck. The 2026 calendar is all about high-level logistics and category innovation. If you only have the budget for a few trips this year, make these the ones:

• BevNET Live (NYC & LA): Still the undisputed king for emerging brands. If you're looking for an investor or a co-packer who actually gets "Better-for-You" liquid, this is where they hang out.
• NBWA Annual Convention: This is the National Beer Wholesalers Association, and it’s non-negotiable if you use DSD. You aren't pitching consumers here; you're pitching the people who own the trucks. If they like you, your life gets 10x easier.
• The Beverage Forum (Manhattan Beach): This is the executive retreat. Think C-suite leaders from the Top 10 distributors and global conglomerates talking macro trends like aluminum supply and sugar tax.‍
• Groceryshop (Las Vegas): Essential for understanding the "Digital Shelf." Retail media networks are changing the game, and you need to know how to win the algorithm before you can win the shelf.