Nothing is certain about the origin of the cocktail, except that it seems to be an American invention. It first appeared in a Hudson, New York newspaper in 1806, when an editor referred to the term as “a stimulating liquor composed of spirits of any kind—sugar, water, and bitters.” Then again, maybe it was Betsy Flanagan’s 1779 tavern where she served drinks “distinguished by the name of ‘cock-tail,'” as James Fenimore Cooper wrote in his 1821 novel, The Spy. Or it could have just been borrowed from the title given to mixed-breed horses (“cock-tailed” horses), since the beverage was seen as similarly blended.

History is appropriately muddled when it comes to the invention of the cocktail. What we do know is that name stuck and the drink’s prominence has only grown, spinning into definitions that are as broad as a mixologist’s imagination.

Mixologists and Bartenders Make the Cocktail

Mixology and bartending are terms that are oftentimes interchanged to refer to the people behind the bar, when they’re actually two sides of the same coin. Mixologists are thought of as inventors, masters of mixing spirits and pairing flavors to create new and exciting recipes. Bartenders craft an experience alongside great drinks. In addition to expertly and efficiently serving up libations, bartenders are known for serving guests by encouraging an atmosphere of tall tales, raucous laughter, and casual chatter. Cheers to those that occupy the roles of mixologist and bartender or a mix of both. Their commitment to crafting an incredible experience has been core to the cocktail’s success.

In order to be the next Old Fashioned, Martini, or Moscow Mule, a cocktail has to both taste good and be connected to a greater experience. Anyone who has gathered after work for a “Cocktail Hour” knows that it’s an opportunity to enjoy a treat amongst friends, in a community. The bar provides that community. Through the hard work of the best mixologists and bartenders, everyone who comes to a bar is served up with precisely what they’re looking for. When they get that drink that tastes just right, paired with the company of co-workers or a friend across the bar, it can cement a memory beyond the cocktail.

Houston’s Has a Role

American Prohibition ended in 1933, the same year that Houston’s was founded. Since our beginnings as the House of Vintages, Houston’s continues to proudly support the bar industry, offering ingredients that can support any cocktail recipe. Here are just a few examples of the products we offer to mixologists and bartenders alike:

Finest Call Mixes

Jose Cuervo Mixes

Rose’s Lime Juice

Master of Mixes Simple Syrup

Bar Supplies

The cocktail has been around for over 200 years, and Houston’s has been in business for nearly half of that time. As the day we started, we remain committed to serve in our role as a supplier of the bar industry.

The post How Did the Cocktail Get Here? appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Last year, Alex Villarreal celebrated 20 years with Houston’s. This year, we continue to celebrate her success as she was awarded the February 2021 Employee of the Month.

It’s not just experience and a deep well of knowledge that Alex brings to the Wilsonville warehouse; she genuinely enjoys the work she does each and every day. “I love this job,” she says. “When I receive product, I like opening up boxes and seeing what’s new, but I like doing a bit of everything, too.” Besides expertly tackling her day-to-day tasks, Alex says that she also enjoys getting to work alongside her team. “My co-workers and supervisors are really the nicest people.”

Here are just a few words from Alex’s manager about how she came to receive the Employee of the Month award. “Alex is a very strong and self-motivated employee. She has knowledge in multiple areas, and she is willing to help wherever she is needed. Her ability and willingness to change task at a moment’s notice makes Alex a valuable employee.”

Even though she’s plenty busy in the Houston’s warehouse, Alex is just as on-the-move at home. One of her favorite hobbies is to walk, whether on her treadmill or across downtown Portland’s bridges. “I walk two or three miles a day, sometimes inside or sometimes outside, depending on the weather. I really like staying active.”

We like to get to know each Employee of the Month a bit more with a lightning round of questions. These were Alex’s answers…

What is something you’re really excited for?

I’m planning trips to Puerto Vallarta and San Diego.

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

I go to Starbucks twice a week to get a café mocha. But I don’t do it too much! It’s a lot of sugar.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Costa Rica. The beaches are beautiful, and the food and animals look amazing too.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve eaten?

Sushi! I love it so much.

What’s the best way to start a day?

In the morning, I’ll make myself some juice, get some breakfast, and get a good workout.

Have you recently watched any good movies or shows?

I really like watching Disney movies.

The post Team Member Spotlight: Alex Villarreal appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Esther Houston

Houston’s was founded in 1933 at the end of prohibition by Esther and Jack Houston as a wine and spirit store. While the business was successful from the start, in 1944, Esther guided a business shift to the distribution of catering and bar supplies, before moving away from catering altogether to only restaurant and bar supply distribution. The company continued to evolve in the mid 60’s to becoming wholesale only, selling exclusively to dealers and distributors.

“Esther was a forward-thinking and innovative woman. It’s really through Esther’s vision of identifying customer needs, remaining flexible, following industry trends and gauging the market that Houston’s has grown,” according to former President Jennifer Vigil.

In 1971 Esther and Jack’s son, John, took over daily operations of the business, growing from a regional family business toward national expansion as a sourcing solution for the food service industry.

It isn’t lost on us that the supply chain is an industry that has been predominantly male and it wouldn’t be until 45 years later that a woman would again take the helm of Houston’s. Today the leadership team is almost half female. In the spirit of International Women’s Day, we asked the female members of our leadership team a series of questions that we’ve shared here.

Q.) What is the foundational leadership lesson you have learned in your career?

Rebecca Phillips

Rebecca Phillips, President – Face it and admit it when you make mistakes, and know that they are going to happen! We don’t learn without embracing our mistakes, and I think it’s especially important for a leader to be able to say that they could have done something better because it’s the first step to actually doing better.

Lenni Treat, Inside Sales & Accounts Receivable Manager – Lead by Example.

Tracie Hall, Human Resources Manager – Act as if. Women sometimes want to feel 100% ready and confident before moving forward or speaking up. Take a cue from men and focus on the areas you DO have knowledge of and act your way into clarity.

Amanda Hackathorn, Purchasing & Accounts Payable Manager – To be honest and present with your staff. I find that being as transparent as possible and keeping them informed helps employees feel like they are a part of the bigger picture, helping them to see how they can effect change in the company.

Annette Kramer, Administrative & Pricing Manager – Be myself and change is good

Q.) What traits do you feel strong leaders possess?

Tracie Hall

Tracie Hall – Authenticity, integrity and confidence, to name a few. If people know you’re coming from an honest place and are truly there for them, they’ll forgive any missteps you may have along the way.

Lenni Treat – Being a clear communicator. Knowing how to meet the needs of a diverse team. Whether it be in the way you converse, assign tasks, etc. Playing to your employee’s strengths. Having empathy – the right amount at the right times. Making sure that they know you appreciate them.

Annette Kramer – Honesty/Integrity • Lead by Example • Respect • Communication • Self-Motivated • Promote Teamwork

Amanda Hackathorn – To me, a good leader will listen to their people, clearly disseminate information, encourage ownership but also jump in to help with the work when it is needed. I’ve always had more respect for my own leaders throughout my career that understand that no task is “beneath” them in any way. We are all in this together and I think good leaders will do anything to help get the job done.

Q.) If there is someone that inspired you – who & how?

Amanda Hackathorn

Rebecca Phillips – My mom was in graphic design at a time when that was an almost exclusively male dominated field. In 1971 she was the first woman production artist ever hired by her firm in Chicago. She was once told that she drew like a man and says that as an artist within the context of the times it was a rare and high compliment. I think it’s an inspiring testament to years of women before us who worked against stereotypes and obstacles to pave the way for greater opportunities.

Amanda Hackathorn – I have been lucky enough to have worked with a lot of great people throughout the years, as mentors and as colleagues. I am drawn to people that work hard and are team-oriented. One person who stands out to me is Brenda Hart, Houston’s Receiving Supervisor. She knows our warehouse and systems like the back of her hand. She is a fantastic example of team-oriented and I am always inspired by her incredible leadership skills and work ethic.

Annette Kramer – My Dad. He always has a great attitude and sees the good in others

Q.) Have you had any mentors in your career that have influenced your success? What lessons, if any, do you still carry with you currently?

Rebecca Phillips – When I think about this question there is not so much an individual person that comes to mind.  What I keep coming back to is the Houston’s team. In 15 years here I’ve grown a lot, and a large part of this is due to the support of the people I’ve worked with along the way. I continue to learn so much from our team every single day and am humbly grateful for it. Probably one lesson I keep with me is that you can always grow and learn from others around you, people have gifts to give whether they know it or not.

Q.) What advice would you share for women seeking a more prominent role in business/social/cultural/other?

Annette Kramer

Rebecca Phillips – It’s okay to be afraid to face the hard stuff, but don’t let that fear stop you. Also, trust your gut. Learn to listen to it, and don’t follow a path that doesn’t feel right, even if others are telling you something different.

Annette Kramer – Don’t let others bring you down. Stay upbeat and be your strong self.

Lenni Treat – Don’t give up! Those opportunities exist, they just may be hard to find. Don’t sacrifice who you are, to fit into someone else’s box.

Tracie Hall – Don’t ask for permission. Approach life with confident expectation and others will rise to the occasion.

Q.) What do you see as challenges for the next generation of female leaders?

Lenni Treat

Lenni Treat – Continuing to stand up for equality in pay and roles. There are still many career fields that are male dominated. Males play an important role in leadership too, but right now the numbers are still very uneven.

Tracie Hall – Current and future generations of female leadership need more systematic support of balancing their personal/home life with work. The demands of raising a family could hold an otherwise qualified female leader back – a challenge not as many men have to face, thus creating more of a barrier towards upward mobility for women than for men.

Q.) Knowing the value of work/life balance, what are your interests outside of Houston’s?

Rebecca Phillips – I love getting outdoors!  Whether it’s working in my yard or hiking in the woods being outside always helps to center me. I took a huge leap this past year and started taking classes to earn a graduate certificate in Strategic Management from Harvard’s Extension School. And of course, my kids.  Those guys are the best.

Lenni Treat – I enjoy spending time outside. Whether it is relaxing by a fire in the back yard, gardening, or just reading a book (which I love to do inside or out J)

Tracie Hall – I love to travel! It opens my mindset – such a fun way to experience personal growth!

Annette Kramer – Camping, reading, or working in the yard. Any day at the beach is a great day!

The post Celebrating International Women’s Day (March 8th) appeared first on Houston's Blog.

There’s no question about the popularity of the Moscow Mule cocktail today. A combination of vodka, lime, the foundational flavor of ginger beer, and that classic copper mug is now a leisure-time staple. How did it get that way? Well, the key ingredients of this fair-weather favorite have an interesting history involving one of Houston’s celebrated vendors: Cock ‘n Bull.

History of the Moscow Mule

During the 1940’s, Smirnoff Vodka was finding it difficult to compete with whiskey and gin in the American market. Having recently acquired distribution for the brand, John Martin (of Heublein, a spirits distributor) had the idea that, with the right partner, he could market Smirnoff as a mixer to boost its sales. At the same time, Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant owner and Cock ‘n Bull Ginger Beer inventor Jack Morgan was looking to promote his product as a stronger alternative to traditional ginger ale.

When these two friends finally met over some drinks, they developed a cocktail that recalled Smirnoff’s Russian heritage while featuring the “kick” of flavor that Cock ‘n Bull Ginger Beer presented. To identify both aspects of the cocktail, they gave it the name “Moscow Mule.”

The Copper Mug

As the story goes, Jack and John weren’t the only two people in the bar the night that the Moscow Mule was invented. Osalene Schmitt, Jack Morgan’s girlfriend, had recently inherited a copper factory with no prospects for business. With that element in the mix, the three decided to give the Moscow Mule a signature serving container, using copper mugs.

Houston’s offers Moscow Mule Mugs that feature a copper-plated exterior, preserving the original marketing of the Moscow Mule while meeting FDA guidelines for safe beverage consumption. Since these mugs still prominently feature copper, your customers can go on promoting the Moscow Mule’s classic look.

The Many Mules

Cock ‘n Bull is most known for its traditional Ginger Beer and its application in the now classic Moscow Mule, but this brand offers a diverse cast of flavors that can add variety far beyond one cocktail recipe.

Ginger isn’t just for cocktails! The flavor has been trending for a few years, now. Learn more about the root of the spice’s success in our blog post, discussing the rise of Ginger Fever.

The post The Moscow Mule: Yesterday and Today appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Since 2013, Cameron Buddrius has been an integral member of the Houston’s warehouse team. He has a hand in almost every warehouse function, whether he’s maintaining hazmat information, doing freight quotes, or completing sample requests.

It’s no wonder that the variety of work is one of his favorite parts about working at Houston’s. “But I mostly like the people,” he says. “Everyone’s always in a good mood, and they’re fun to work with.” That constant work ethic, versatility, and positivity has earned Cameron our January 2021 Employee of the Month award.

As much as he gets done on the job, Cameron is just as busy at home. He has several hobbies. He likes to build PCs, learn more about what makes different vehicles operate, and he’s a history buff.

In speaking with Cameron’s manager, it was easy to understand what made him the right choice for the Employee of the Month award. “Cameron was nominated, not only for being the top order puller at 180 units per hour, but also for his knowledge in other departments,” she says. “He starts his week out by helping in the FedEx department and ends his week by helping out with Cash & Carry, often being asked to stay late. He is always willing to lend a hand where he is needed and still finds time for his own job.”

We ask every Employee of the Month a lightning round of questions to get to know them a bit more. These were Cameron’s answers…

What is something you’re really excited for?

I’m ready for COVID to be over. I’m going to a sit-down restaurant as soon as things return to normal.

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

My friends and family.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I’d definitely live in the U.S., but I’d need to travel more to make a decision on which state. I’m staying in Oregon for now.

What’s the best way to start a day?

Mentally prepare for any task that might be ahead.

Have you recently watched any good movies or shows?

I just started watching some 60’s and 70’s war movies. It’s interesting to see how far movies have come.

The post Team Member Spotlight: Cameron Buddrius appeared first on Houston's Blog.

With its range of available flavors and brands, alternative milks are no longer a fringe dietary preference. What began in 2008 as a mere soy milk option has soared into a $16 billion global industry that milks just about any oat or nut it can find. Although still popular amongst vegans and lactic-challenged consumers, these plant-based beverages are increasingly appearing on cafe menus to appeal to the mainstream crowd.

At Houston’s, we’ve noticed a similar rise in alternative milk’s popularity. What could account for this steady climb in the market? One potential answer to this growth: people like the way it tastes.

Still Making a Stir

In 2019, sales of alternative milks made up 14% of the entire milk market, while dairy milk sales remained unchanged. When asked about why they’d made that choice, people often cite environmental sustainability and healthier diets. And by offering new flavors in places where traditional milk has typically been king, alternative milks have found a new and interesting foothold for those who don’t necessarily identify with having dietary restrictions.

Retailers don’t just benefit from new flavors, though. Alternative milks also offer an inherent benefit to the bottom line: shelf life. Newly purchased dairy milk typically spoils within a couple of weeks, making it costly if a carton goes to waste in the refrigerator. Alternative milks have a shelf life of 6 – 12 months, a much more flexible and forgiving timeline.

Taking a snapshot of Houston’s barista-centric alternative milks, you can begin to understand just how dynamic and valuable these flavors can be to a barista.

A creamy and refreshing coconut taste.

Not overly sweet with a light oat flavor.

Rich and creamy with a mild hint of almond.

The Barista’s Choice

While almond and oat have certainly been the most successful of the bunch, there is a crowd for every form of alternative milk. More and more recipes are emerging that call for soy milk, hemp milk, coconut milk, or rice milk. Every day, your customers are expanding their menus with a greater variety of flavor and texture.

Pacific Foods

Oatly

Almond Breeze

The alternative milks in these recipes aren’t just about substituting dairy milk. They play a role in enhancing other flavors, providing a more complex experience rather than a simple liquid base. Suddenly, that turmeric latte has a complimentary hint of coconut that would have been completely absent with the use of traditional milk.

The Houston’s Assortment

Houston’s offers three brands of alternative milks because we understand the importance of variety and preference. You may find multiple almond milks or oat milks across these vendors, but each presents its own formula and a different experience. Oatly’s Barista Edition Oatmilk and Pacific Foods’ Barista Series Oat both provide an exceptional foaming beverage for lattes and other cafe staples, but they aren’t identical. Each brand has its own loyal customers; it’s just about finding what’s right for the ones you do business with.

The post Alternative Milks: Variety in a Cup appeared first on Houston's Blog.

When asked what keeps him motivated, Adam says, “The free coffee and snacks of course! But seriously, hands down, it’s the people and our company culture. Surrounding yourself with people that make you better, faster, and stronger is important for growth on both a personal and professional level; I found that here at Houston’s.”

Adam says he sees Houston’s as a second home and family, but he does go to his other home on occasion. During the summer months, he likes to go to the beach, hike, or do yard work. When the weather isn’t cooperating, Adam spends time with his family and likes to work on DIY projects, especially his recently acquired 1960’s pickup truck. “My newfound interest is combustion engines and automotive mechanics,” he says. “If there are any automotive gurus here at Houston’s, my door is always open!”

“Adam has been integral in the success of Merchandising over the past few years,” says Director of Merchandising Geoff Dann. “He has made many new connections with both our customers and vendors, which continues to aid in his growth at Houston’s. Adam shows initiative by consistently working to better his output, plus he engages positively with his peers with a solution-based mentality.  It’s an absolute joy to work so closely with him.” Keep it up and congratulations on this award, Adam!

The post Team Member Spotlight: Adam Gooch appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Just as every great warehouse employee, Oscar Perez is ready, willing, and able to take on any role that’s asked of him. And that’s precisely what has made him Kansas City’s newest Employee of the Quarter. Almost as soon as he started with Houston’s, Oscar’s work as a picker made him one of the top performing employees at Houston’s. Along with that and his eagerness to learn, Oscar has proven that he is more than worthy to be honored this quarter.

About his work at Houston’s, Oscar credits the tight-knit community at the Kansas City location as one of his favorite elements. “I like that I get the opportunity to get to know everyone,” he says. “I’ve worked other jobs where I meet people and never see them again because the company’s too big.”

When not spending time with his work family, Oscar likes to go out for some off-roading and fishing. While the weather’s not cooperating for those outdoor activities, he spends his time watching movies and shows on Netflix. He’s also preparing to be a new dad! “We’re just waiting for the little one to arrive any day now.”

“Oscar is so friendly and a very hard worker,” says Brenda Willett, Kansas City Supervisor. “He’s such a quick learner. We’re so glad that he’s joined the Houston’s family, and we know we’ll see him go far.” We’re all proud of the work you do, Oscar. Congratulations!

The post Team Member Spotlight: Oscar Perez appeared first on Houston's Blog.

LeRoy Tomes has worked at Houston’s since 1999, and in that time he has become the main contact between Smart Foodservice Warehouse Store managers and employees in Medford and Klamath Falls stores. In addition to that important duty, he works closely with Smart Foodservice’s end-user customers. From that perspective alone, LeRoy has become irreplaceable to Houston’s, and for so many more reasons, he’s earned our most recent Merchandising Employee of the Quarter award.

As an expert on Houston’s product, he’s responsible for representing our company every single day. “I really enjoy helping these customers get the quality of products they need to be successful,” he says. “My fellow Houston’s employees also make that possible by offering me such awesome support out in the field.”

With eight children and 16 grandchildren, LeRoy has no shortage of activity in his life outside of work. He says that he enjoys spending time with his family, but he also finds some time to garden, cook, and make the occasional vacation trip. LeRoy says that his favorite place to have travelled was the Caribbean. “It is so peaceful and laid back.”

According to supervisor Jon Saari, LeRoy’s hard work and passion for the job are evident. “Everything he does is perfect. He deserves this and so much more. If we had a Merchandiser of the Decade award, he’d get that. But we will settle for giving him Employee of the Quarter.” Congratulations, LeRoy!

The post Team Member Spotlight: LeRoy Tomes appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Each year, Houston’s celebrates the holidays together by taking part in a Spirit Week that traditionally leads up to our annual holiday party. However, like many aspects of 2020, the holidays are looking a little different at Houston’s, with fewer office visits, more remote employees, and an absence in the kinds of gatherings that usually unite us in celebration and help foster our company’s deep sense of family.

Instead of letting one more element of this year be yet another disappointment, the employees at Houston’s rallied to spread holiday cheer while maintaining the practices that have kept us safe this year. Over the course of five days, Houston’s shared in a little fun tradition, and by dressing in some holiday spirit, we found a sense of normalcy in a year that was anything but normal.

Monday of our Houston’s Spirit Week was all about headwear, which ranged from reindeer antlers with bells, Santa hats, and holiday-themed masks, to winter apparel that makes us feel downright cozy.

We went from head-to-toes on Tuesday! In addition to wearing our best Houston’s-branded gear, we showcased the depths of our sock drawers with some silly and festive socks.

Wednesday was all about team spirit. Whether it be real or fictional, members of the Houston’s family pulled out the apparel that represents their favorite teams across various sports.

Do you ever feel like rolling out of bed during the week and staying in your pajamas? Well, on Thursday, many of us did just that! Whether in the comfort of our own homes, in the warehouse, or in the office, we kicked back a little for the day.

Houston’s tradition dictates that the last day of Houston’s Spirit Week culminates in a festive sweater group photo. However, to keep each other safe this year, we decided not to gather for the photo in the usual way. But we still found a way to come together with a little help from Photoshop.

From the Houston’s family, to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas.

The post Houston’s Has Spirit appeared first on Houston's Blog.