RNDC Wins Best Technology Innovation
As we wrap up our annual Distributor Best Practices, Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) stood out in the Best Technology Innovation category.
Technology is at the forefront of innovation at many companies across the beverage alcohol industry. Between Artificial Intelligence (AI), data, machines, computer systems and so much more, businesses thrive on efficient technology.
At Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), innovation is crucial in moving the distributor forward. That’s why they created eRNDC, a fully customizable and collaborative B2B e-commerce platform.
Customers, sales teams and suppliers can connect through a seamless, data-driven experience. Built with cutting-edge e-commerce and AI technologies, eRNDC allows users to shop, order and connect with ease—anytime, anywhere.
“eRNDC started as a simple idea in April of 2019 to connect our sales teams, supplier partners and customers on one united platform,” says Emily Xu, chief digital and information officer at RNDC. “Since then, we’ve grown the platform to surpass $1 billion in annual sales.”
In addition to eRNDC, in August of 2024, the company expanded its digital ecosystem with the launch of REDI (Republic Digital), a digital accelerator designed to help brands win over today’s tech-savvy customers. REDI simplifies engagement across the three-tier system, offering solutions that elevate brand visibility, drive growth and deliver results.
“These technology initiatives are not only driving real results but also reflect RNDC’s commitment to help our suppliers grow brands and stay ahead of the curve,” Xu adds.
As eRNDC adoption grows, so does the company’s understanding of customer behavior.
Data from the e-commerce platform has found that on-premise accounts search by category. Tequila, bourbon and champagne are the top searched-for categories. Meanwhile, off-premise accounts search by brand, with bourbon and tequila again topping the list.
Luxury and premium spirits also continue to trend upward. As far as wine goes, top categories include champagne, cabernet, chardonnay, pinot noir and sake.
These insights help RNDC’s teams and partners stay ahead of the curve and make smarter, faster decisions.
“Listening to our customers is how we keep evolving and growing the platform,” Xu says. “Today with over 80,000 customers in 27 states available on eRNDC, it’s helping hundreds of businesses operate more efficiently and make smarter decisions for product discovery and purchase.”
Xu also mentions that RNDC is hearing customers want to gain more insights to help them grow their business. Because of this desire, the company is focusing on adding AI-driven insights to make customers’ day-to-day operations easier.
“Our goal is to continue evolving eRNDC as the most intuitive and impactful platform in the industry,” Xu adds.
With REDI, RNDC is taking that transformation even further. REDI empowers brands to thrive in the digital space by simplifying media buying, enhancing marketplace visibility and providing actionable insights to guide strategy.
RNDC’s goal is to take the guess work out of impacting digital in supporting its suppliers. In a 2024 program, one major wine brand saw a 400% increase in GMV by leveraging REDI’s tools and expertise.
Together, eRNDC and REDI are redefining what’s possible in beverage alcohol—fueling progress, unlocking potential and giving everyone something to celebrate.
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