The beverage alcohol industry is evolving fast—driven by shifting consumer preferences, economic volatility, and category innovation. At the heart of understanding these changes lies one powerful tool: data.

That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that Kaleigh Theriault, Vice President at NielsenIQ, will deliver the opening keynote at the 2025 USA Trade Tasting in Chicago. Her session, titled “Trends and Insights: Navigating the Alcohol Industry Through Data,” promises to be a must-attend for producers, importers, distributors, and retailers alike.

Kaleigh Theriault Director of Thought Leadership at NIQ Beverage Alcohol Vertical 

Kaleigh has 8 years of NIQ experience and considerable background working with clients in multiple categories. She has been involved with the Beverage Alcohol category for the last four years working on Thought Leadership and client specific business questions and projects. Kaleigh brings a unique skillset of analytic capabilities, as well as commercial selling story creation, and has significant background in bringing consumer insights to the forefront in support of sales trends. She has been pivotal in the NIQ strategy and tactics for Beverage Alcohol as the industry changes and develops.

Why This Talk Matters

Kaleigh will present exclusive NielsenIQ data and consumer research revealing where the U.S. drinks market is heading in 2025 and beyond. From the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives to the premiumization trend across categories, this session will break down:

- Which consumer segments are driving growth—and which are pulling back

- How Gen Z and millennial buyers are reshaping alcohol preferences

- The role of economic pressures in pricing and category shifts

- Why digital engagement, AI, and omni-channel selling strategies are reshaping retail

- What successful brands are doing to stay relevant and profitable

In a time when strategy based on guesswork is no longer sustainable, Kaleigh will show you how data-backed decisions are your competitive edge.

Attendees will get first hand info on data trends

Who Should Attend?

Whether you’re a brand owner trying to capture market share, a retailer building a smarter assortment, or an importer looking for the next big trend—this talk will help you understand not just what is happening, but why. You’ll leave with actionable takeaways on what products to focus on, how to position your brand, and where to invest for long-term growth.

Secure Your Spot

USA Trade Tasting is the premier event connecting brands with trade buyers across the U.S. The 2025 edition focuses on “Navigating the New Norm: How Producers, Importers, and Distributors Can Adapt and Thrive in a Tariff-Driven Landscape.”

Make sure to be in the room when Kaleigh kicks things off—this session will set the tone for the entire show.

USA Trade Tasting 2025
May 20, 2025
Morgan Manufacturing, Chicago
Opening Talk by Kaleigh Theriault, NielsenIQ

Get Your Trade Pass →

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