The Drinks Association’s Supply Chain & Logistics Forum recently brought members together in Brisbane for two days of presentations, industry insights and behind-the-scenes tours across some of Australia’s leading supply chain and logistics operations.
Hosted across multiple iconic sites including Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Lion XXXX Brewery and the Port of Brisbane, the forum provided members with valuable opportunities to explore the future of supply chain operations, logistics innovation and evolving consumer trends within the drinks industry.
Day one commenced at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners’ Richlands facility
Attendees were welcomed by newly appointed Forum Chair, Michael Whitford, Supply Chain Brand Partner Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, before hearing from a strong line-up of presenters tackling some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the liquor industry.
Endeavour Group recently joined the Drinks Association as a Retail Partner, so it was great to welcome Angus McFadyen, General Manager Supply Chain, who provided an overview of their supply chain network, sharing insights into recent changes across the business and key trends shaping the drinks and retail landscape.
Members then heard from Tinika Tipene, Customer Relationship Manager, and Sam Taylor, Supply Chain Development Manager at Mainfreight, who explored CPI pressures and the future of global shipping, highlighting the ongoing impacts of economic conditions on freight and international supply chains.
Aaron Backman from ALM provided members with an overview of the company’s extensive supply chain network, highlighting the complexity of servicing customers across metropolitan, regional and remote locations throughout Australia. His presentation explored a range of logistics initiatives focused on improving efficiency, reliability and responsiveness across the network, while also adapting to changing customer expectations and market demands.
We were fortunate to have Tom Graham from NielsenIQ provide a detailed outlook, drawing on extensive research and market data to examine the rapidly evolving omnichannel liquor landscape and the changing behaviours influencing purchasing decisions across the industry.
Tom explored how consumers are increasingly engaging across multiple purchasing channels, with retail, online and hospitality experiences all playing an important role in the customer journey. His presentation highlighted how convenience, value, premiumisation and changing social behaviours are continuing to influence purchasing patterns, while digital engagement and evolving consumer expectations are reshaping how brands and retailers connect with customers.
A highlight of the afternoon was the exclusive tour of the Coca-Cola Europacific Partners manufacturing facility and their fridge warehouse and maintenance site, where members gained firsthand insight into the scale and sophistication of modern beverage manufacturing and distribution operations. The tour showcased the advanced processes, safety protocols and operational efficiencies required to support one of Australia’s largest beverage supply chains.
The forum dinner at Howard Smith Wharves provided members with the opportunity to continue conversations and strengthen connections in a relaxed setting overlooking the Brisbane River.
Day two began with an early morning tour of the iconic XXXX Brewery
Led by former employees, the tour offered attendees a unique look into one of Australia’s most recognised brewing operations and the history behind Queensland beer production.
Following the brewery tour, members attended a presentation from Argon & Co, with David Bissett discussing the practical application of AI within supply chain operations and how businesses can move beyond the hype to deliver meaningful operational outcomes.
A standout session on day two featured special guests Brisbane Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy and former Broncos player Corey Oates, who shared insights into leadership, culture and building high-performing teams in elite sport.
The discussion explored the importance of mentorship, communication and creating environments where individuals feel supported to learn, ask questions and continuously improve. Corey reflected on the impact mentors and coaches had throughout his career, while Dave highlighted the importance of alignment, clarity and strong organisational culture in driving sustained success.
Drawing parallels between professional sport and business, the session resonated strongly with forum attendees, reinforcing how teamwork, trust and a commitment to continual improvement are critical to achieving long-term performance outcomes in any industry.
The forum concluded with a rare opportunity to tour the Port of Brisbane and DP World terminal facilities, facilitated by Anthony Byrnes, CEO of Harders. Members were given an overview of port operations and the critical role Australia’s freight and logistics infrastructure plays in supporting the drinks industry supply chain, from importation through to distribution. The group was then fortunate enough to get up close to a ship docked and being loaded.
The Drinks Association would like to thank all presenters, hosts and attendees for contributing to another highly successful Supply Chain & Logistics Forum, and in particular thank Coca-Cola Europacific Partners and Lion for generously sharing their facilities and providing catering.
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