James Edward and Companies began in 1994 as a full service broker firm that helped innovative beverage brands set up distribution. In the early 1990’s, Red Bull was already an established brand in Europe, however It was virtually unknown in the US. In 1997 Red Bull North America was founded and began distribution of Red Bull in America. James (Jim) Rubenstein, President and CEO of James Edward and Companies, Inc. was intrigued by the “Red Bull phenomenon” that was sweeping over Europe. Jim was sure that it could become more than just a popular drink in the U.S. In 1997 Jim wrote to Red Bull and asked to broker their product in the U.S. though his current food and beverage brokerage firm at the time. However, Red Bull was looking for independent distributors, not brokers. If Jim wanted to be a part of the Red Bull brand, he would have to start an entirely new company. Convinced of Red Bull’s potential, Jim and his partners mobilized into action. Today, James Edward and Companies service more than 13,000 retailers alongside its three distribution companies, house over 280 employees and is continuously growing!
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Matador Distributing began its operations in March 2000 in Atlanta, GA as James Edward and Companies first exclusive Red Bull Distributor. In the beginning, Matador consisted of one general manager and two account managers that serviced only two routes in Atlanta, Ga. Today, As the fifth largest distributor in the United States, Matador service retailers throughout the following markets: Atlanta Metro, rural Georgia, Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Asheville, North Carolina areas. Matador has warehouse locations in Westpark, Lawrenceville, Rossville, and Byron Georgia, as well as Asheville, North Carolina. Matador operates 74 routes that service over 8,000 customers with a team of around 145 employees and counting. Our growth is a result of more than just luck but rather shrewd intuition and the belief that savvy business practices combined with a great brand would equal success. Matador Distributing does more than distribute the world’s number 1 energy drink; we build relationships with our retail customers. Matador offers competitive programs that help our customers maximize their profits and grow their business. By creating and improving relationships, we aim to over-deliver value in all aspects of our business. At Matador, we believe in instilling the integrity of which our business was founded on. We continue to acknowledge the contributions and intrinsic value of our customers, employees and supplies as the integral part of our business. We do what we do every day because we believe in creating mutually trusting and beneficial relationships with our supplier, customers and employees.
Matador believes that this is a best practice for continuing growth and profitability for all Matador is dedicated in delivering superior customer service in a highly efficient and profitable manner while upholding Red Bull North America and the established brand standards. We are continuously dedicated to assist Red Bull in maintaining their positioning and innovative leadership in the energy drink category. Lastly, and most importantly, we BELIEVE in the Red Bull brand and our customers do too!
