91: Predictions 2026: Profit, Power Shifts, and the Next Alcohol Cycle

In this annual predictions episode of the Tapped In Sales Podcast, Bud Dunn is joined by Moneyball Ross and Data Mike to break down what 2026 is shaping up to look like for beer distributors, suppliers, and the broader alcohol industry.These aren’t hot takes. They’re directional bets based on real conversations with distributors, suppliers, and operators across the country.From macroeconomic forces and Federal Reserve policy to RTDs, NA beer, THC regulation, supplier shakeouts, and AI in distribution—this episode connects the dots between what’s happening upstream and what it means downstream for your business.If you’re still waiting for volume to come back, this episode is your wake-up call.🔮 Key Predictions & Themes for 2026📉 The End of the Volume Fantasy💰 Profit Becomes the Primary Scoreboard⚖️ Power Shifts Toward Distributors🍹 RTDs Continue to Win—Consolidation Accelerates🌿 NA Beer Consolidates Around Fewer Winners⚠️ THC & Delta-9: Regulation Is Coming🏭 Craft’s “Middle Class” Gets Squeezed🧠 Middle Management Becomes a Strategic Investment🤖 AI Moves from Toy to Tool🎧 Why This Episode MattersThis episode isn’t about fear—it’s about clarity.The next alcohol cycle will reward:Discipline over hopeExecution over entitlementProfit over volumeIf you want to understand where the industry is actually headed—and how to position your business to win in 2026 and beyond—this episode is required listening.📩 Get In TouchQuestions or feedback? Email us at [email protected] you found value in this episode, share it with a colleague and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Predictions Overview00:49 Macro Economic Predictions and Trends03:46 The Impact of AI on the Economy06:49 Political Influences on Economic Policies09:51 Regulatory Changes in the THC Beverage Market12:44 Shifts in Industry Focus: Profit Over Volume15:50 The Future of Alcohol Consumption Trends23:55 Predictions and Benchmarks24:49 Anheuser-Busch's Acquisition Strategy27:42 The Lawsuit and Brand Positioning30:48 Market Dynamics and Consumer Trends31:47 Molson Coors and Strategic Acquisitions33:57 The Future of Non-Alcoholic Beverages36:12 Craft Beer Industry Challenges39:18 The Role of Distributors in the Market43:34 Investing in Middle Management47:21 AI's Impact on the Industry===============YouTube: Watch on YouTube: Tapped In Sales Spotify Podcast: Listen & Watch on Spotify Podcasts Tapped In SalesApple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcast Tapped In Sales===============Connect with Us:  Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest episodes, industry news, and insights from the beer distribution world.About Tapped In Sales:  Tapped In Sales is a podcast dedicated to beer distributors and beverage industry professionals who are looking to elevate their sales strategies and drive profitability. Hosted by industry experts Bud Dunn and Mike Hall, we dive deep into real-world stories, actionable insights, and the latest trends to help sales teams and managers unlock their full potential. Each episode blends data, strategy, and motivation, making complex topics easy to understand and implement.This podcast is powered by VXP Tech – the leading Sales Strategy Management system designed for beer distributors. VXP simplifies the complexities of goal setting, variable compensation, and sales team performance, helping you master your market and grow profits, case by case.Stay tuned for expert advice, fresh perspectives, and tools to sharpen your sales approach!If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend!