Ben E. Keith Beverages

Say hello to Mike Sullivan! This Craft and Import Brand Manager in Dallas got his start with Ben E. Keith over 30 years ago as a Route Assistant. Favorite Part of Role: Mike loves that he and his team are the connective tissue between suppliers and partners, making the decisions that help successfully sell new products. Fun Fact: Not Pops or Grandpa - Mike’s grandkids affectionately call him Rocko. The backstory to that nickname remains a mystery. Favorite Memory: With a great team by his side, Mike formed many friendships and fond memories of working long summer days on Route 741. According to Steve Olkewicz, Specialty Division Business Development Manager, “Mike is a valued asset to the team, consistently demonstrating dedication, skill, and a strong commitment to achieving company goals.” We love that you, your two brothers, and your son are all with us together - your family is part of ours. Here’s to you, Mike! 🍻

We’re honored to be recognized by US News as one of the Best Companies to Work for 2024-2025! For over 100 years our focus at Ben E. Keith has been to serve the highest quality to our customers and foster a positive culture for our people. We’re proud of our team that works hard every day so we can keep doing what we do! https://lnkd.in/gFh-siwK

A big thanks to both our Dallas branch and Eternal Water! Together, we successfully donated pallets of water to Grand Prairie during the recent water issues. Management and Operations acted quickly and delivered the water within an hour of hearing the news. Cheers to Roman Martinez for making the delivery! 💦

Introducing Pat Hunter! This Operations Project Manager began his career with Ben E. Keith 35 years ago as a Driver Assistant in Fort Worth. Favorite Part of Role: Call Pat the fixer, because his favorite thing to do is tackle all the little (and sometimes big) problems that crop up for his fellow employees. Fun Fact: You can catch Pat at the car show. He really loves the sleek lines, powerful engines and unique designs of exotic cars. Favorite Memory: The 1995 All Star game in Arlington - Pat’s first role in Special Events - will always stick out in his mind as a highlight of his career. Jon Thompson, Vice President of Operations, says, “Pat is a team player who can be in two places at the same time and is always a pro. His extensive experience provides invaluable know-how and insight to our department and the Division. We are grateful for his loyalty and dedication over the past 35 years. Thank you Pat, for everything you do!” You are a real asset to our Operations Department, Pat, and we look forward to the great things you will accomplish with your team. Cheers to you! 🍻

At Ben E. Keith, we keep culture top of mind and at the heart of our culture is our people. As a result, we devote resources giving back to the communities where we live and service. That’s why we are proud to support The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and the work they’re doing to combat homelessness. Check out our recent segment with WFAA to learn more about our commitment!

We recently participated in a great event with the BEK Waco team and the group from Shepards Heart Food Pantry. BEK was represented by 15 volunteers, including employees, spouses, children, and one grandchild! Despite the heat and scorching summer sun, the team, along with local volunteers, filled 250 shopping carts and loaded roughly the same number of vehicles. Each shopping cart included enough food to feed a family of five for several days. We're grateful to all the volunteers and Shepards Heart Food Pantry for giving us an opportunity to give back to our communities by lending a helping hand to those in need.

Say hello to Shane Orr! This Spirit Development Manager joined Ben E. Keith 13 years ago as a Merchandiser/Swing Salesman. Favorite Part of Role: In a world of beer, Shane loves sharing his expertise and educating people about spirits, as well as building out new BEK Spirit Brands. Fun Fact: Shane is the proud father of three daughters, ages 6, 9 and 11. Favorite Memory: The Champions program was a highlight for Shane, and he will always remember the great times getting to meet and exchange ideas with other BEK branches and managers. According to TJ Samuelson, Texas Spirits Manager, “Shane is the consummate professional. He’s accountable, driven and forward-thinking with high business acumen and a team-first mentality. His sunny disposition and canny sense of humor always brighten the day of those around him. I have tremendous respect and admiration for Shane and am proud to call him a colleague and friend.” You are a real asset to our Spirits division, and your success in growing and nurturing our Spirits Brands is awe-inspiring. Here’s to you, Shane! 🍸

Cheers to the Greater Dallas Chapter — Texas Restaurant Association scholarship award recipients. Ben E. Keith Beverages is proud to help other Founders Club members support students working towards the foodservice or hospitality industry through college or culinary school!