Spirits start-ups can’t outspend global giants in bars and restaurants - but, as Overproof’s Ed Dobbles (below) explains, smart research and bartender relationships can deliver an outsized on-premise impact. Do your homework firstOverproof, a US sales execution and business intelligence platform, helps alcohol brands use AI and data to target the right accounts, optimise field operations and connect depletion data to performance. Chief analytics officer Ed Dobbles believes the on-premise remains the most powerful channel for challenger brands to build traction - if
Breaking into the on-premise on a budget – Market Intel
‘If they already work with smaller producers, that’s a strong indication you could be a good fit.’

Henry joined Global Drinks Intel as a senior reporter in 2025, having spent two years writing news, features and analysis articles for Just Drinks and Just Food. He has gained WSET Level 2 qualifications both in wine and beer independently.



