We’re pulling back the curtain on the first four talks we’ve got planned for BevNET Live New York City 2026, taking place June 10–11 at the Metropolitan Pavilion.
Richard Laver, founder and CEO of Lucky Energy, will take the stage to break down how he’s building a modern challenger brand in one of the most competitive segments of beverage — and draw on his experience as a repeat founder to illuminate what it actually takes to fight for distribution against better-funded incumbents.
Olivia Ferdi and Daniel Khoury, co-founders of Trip, will share how they’re scaling within a still-emerging functional relaxation category in the U.S., including the channel strategy they believe can push the brand into breakout territory.
Capital remains selective, strategic, and highly relationship-driven. Chuck Cotter of Morrison & Foerster and Daniel Faierman of Habitat Partners will offer a candid look at today’s fundraising environment — from how investors are evaluating beverage opportunities in 2026 to the most common mistakes founders make when preparing to raise growth capital.
Retail access remains one of the industry’s biggest hurdles. Laura Taylor, founder of Mingle, joins Samantha Fletcher, senior category merchant at Whole Foods Market, for a rare founder–buyer conversation on what makes a pitch resonate, how brands can build productive retailer relationships, and what growth actually looks like once you’re on shelf.
This initial lineup reflects what defines BevNET Live: founders, investors, retailers, and operators sharing practical case studies shaped by real market conditions — uncertain capital, evolving consumer demand, and intensifying competition across nearly every beverage segment. Many more speakers and panels will be announced in the coming weeks.
Beyond the stage, BevNET Live offers structured opportunities designed to move businesses forward:
- Curated 1:1 meetings with leading investors and retail buyers
- The New Beverage Showdown, spotlighting emerging brands
- Beverage School sessions built for early-stage entrepreneurs
- Focused networking throughout the two-day program
For beverage innovators navigating growth in 2026, BevNET Live remains a forum built not just for ideas, but for execution.
More details — including additional speaker announcements — are coming soon. Discounted early registration is still available.
Register for BevNET Live NYC 2026 >>
About BevNET Live
BevNET Live is the most influential business event for beverage brands in North America. Held twice annually, the event brings together a curated community of founders, investors, retailers, and distributors for strategic programming, 1:1 meetings, product sampling, and high-visibility networking.
The NYC 2026 edition takes place June 10-11 and will feature our signature pitch competition, the New Beverage Showdown, alongside expert-led panels and insights from some of the industry’s most impactful leaders.