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Who We Are

Defined by our people, our dedication to the communities, suppliers and customers we serve since 1934.

Breakthru Beverage Missouri
(Formerly Major Brands)

Relationships are key to Breakthru Beverage Missouri’s success and 80-​year plus legacy as a wholesale wine and spirits distributor in Missouri. Since 1934, we’ve been representing the leading global, national and local wine, spirits, and beer producers in the industry, delivering premium beverages and service to our more than 9,000 licensed customers across the state. 

It’s not just what we serve, but how we serve it that matters. At Breakthru Beverage Missouri, it’s our people that set us apart. We lead the way with a team of customer focused employees with a Midwest ethic, who care about each other and their communities.

About Breakthru Beverage Group

Breakthru Beverage Group is one of the leading alcohol wholesalers in the United States and the largest broker in Canada representing a full total beverage alcohol portfolio of spirits, wine, and beer. Breakthru is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and supports a wide range of notable organizations as well as local charitable initiatives across its North American footprint. Across all markets, Breakthru aligns a nimble and insightful approach to sales, marketing, and operations. Family ownership is active in the business and committed to being stewards of heritage and champions of innovation. For more information, visit www.BreakthruBev.com.

Our History

Since 1934, we have done business with the belief that if you work hard and do what’s right, you’ll be successful. This approach is evident throughout our company’s history. We’re proud of where we began, what we’ve accomplished, and where we’re headed.

1933
Repeal of Prohibition
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1934
Epsten Family receives one of the first wholesale distribution licenses in the state of Missouri and E & L Wholesale is founded
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1955
Robert Epsten, second generation, expands family business with General Wholesale in Kansas City, Missouri
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1966
General Wholesale acquires Standard and becomes General Standard
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1988
Under third generation leadership, General Standard expands and Major Brands is established
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2002
Todd Epsten appointed CEO of Major Brands
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2011
Sue McCollum assumes leadership of Major Brands from her husband, Todd Epsten
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2012
Major Brands receives industry recognition for ongoing commitment to social responsibility
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2014
Major Brands acquires Missouri Beverage Co. and Garco Wine Co. to further expand breadth and depth of product portfolio
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2020
The Wirtz family acquires ownership of Major Brands from Sue McCollum
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2022
Major Brands is acquired by Breakthru Beverage Group
BreakThru Beverage Missouri

Our Mission

Breakthru Beverage Missouri is a high-​performance distributor of premium beverages, whose commitment to excellence is reflected in our:

Responsible distribution of premium products
Exceptional relationships with customers and suppliers
Unwavering support of our employee family and the community

Our Values

Our commitment to our shared values informs how we achieve our mission.

Be True | Be Courageous | Be Passionate | Be Inclusive 

Our Leadership

Breakthru Beverage Missouri leadership team places a strong emphasis on values and relationships which are the building blocks and foundation of our culture.

Scott Johnson

Scott Johnson

Executive Vice President

Kathie Hinkebein

Director, Finance

Melva Pete

Melva Pete

Chief Human Resources Officer

Brad Burton

Vice President/​General Sales Manager — East

Jeremy Cobb

Vice President/​General Sales Manager — West

Dan Matuszek

Dan Matuszek

Vice President of Wine Strategy

Craig Housman

Director of Trade Marketing

Steve Maitland

Steve Maitland

Vice President of National and Strategic Accounts

Major Brands Careers

Join Our Team

At Breakthru Beverage Missouri, our people are our key competitive advantage and are the heart and soul of our company. The entire Breakthru Beverage Missouri team is dedicated to serving our customers across the state of Missouri and building relationships with our Suppliers and the community.

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