# #230 - From Self-Distribution to Full-Service Distributor: Scaling Ops with Smidge Beverage and Cin7

- Show: [The Startup CPG Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast)
- Published: 2026-01-06
- Length: 49m
- Episode: 239
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2026-01-06-230-from-self-distribution-to-full-service-distributor-scaling-ops-with-smidge-b
- Listen: https://share.transistor.fm/s/124a7434

## Summary

Adam O'Connor, founder of Smidge Beverage, and Josh Fischer, VP of Product at Cin7, discuss scaling a low-alcohol vodka soda brand by implementing robust inventory management systems early. O'Connor explains his decision to use Cin7 pre-revenue to manage lot codes, expiration dates, and invoicing while self-distributing in Arizona, allowing him to navigate the three-tier alcohol system and build retailer relationships. Fischer outlines the typical evolution of CPG founders from 'brand builders' to 'operations economists' around the 12-month mark, emphasizing the importance of inventory forecasting and integrating tools like QuickBooks and Shopify to support growth.

## Outline

1. Introduction: Smidge Beverage and Cin7
2. Product Concept and Market Gap
3. Self-Distribution and Three-Tier System Challenges
4. Implementing Cin7 Pre-Revenue
5. The Founder's Shift to Operations
6. Inventory Forecasting and Tech Stack
7. Scaling with Distributors and Implementation Tips

## Topics

- [Scaling production](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/scaling-production)
- [Sourcing & supply chain](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/sourcing-and-supply-chain)
- [Direct-to-consumer & e-commerce](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/direct-to-consumer)
- [Pricing, margins & unit economics](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/pricing-and-unit-economics)
- [Retail, wholesale & distribution](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/retail-and-distribution)
- [AI & machine learning](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/ai-and-machine-learning)

## Most relevant to

early-stage companies, companies scaling up

## Mentioned

- Smidge Beverage (product)
- Cin7 (tool)
- QuickBooks Online (tool)
- Shopify (tool)
- Accountfully (company)
- AJ's Fine Foods (company)
- Total Wine (company)

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- [Guayakí Yerba Mate: David Karr and Chris Mann](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/how-i-built-this/2022-11-28-guayaki-yerba-mate-david-karr-and-chris-mann) (How I Built This)
- [297 - Can functional THC beverages help with alcoholism? Jonny Locarni and Magic Cactus believe so!](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2024-12-04-297-can-functional-thc-beverages-help-with-alcoholism-jonny-locarni-and-magic-ca) (People of Packaging)
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## Citing this page

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