Company provides an integrated suite of DTC and wholesale storage, fulfillment, and logistics services.
NAPA, CA. (June 26, 2024) — Wine Service Cooperative, innovators of direct-to-consumer (DTC) and wholesale fulfillment solutions, has appointed Brent Ilgen as Director of Operations.
With over 20 years of experience building and optimizing global supply chains, Ilgen will oversee the company’s four fulfillment centers, including Wine Service Cooperative’s new state-of-the-art distribution warehouse in Louisville, KY, which serves to minimize the costs and environmental footprint associated with shipping wines from the West Coast to Midwest and East Coast locations.
Ilgen will implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiencies and develop strategic initiatives that address the evolving wine logistics model. As the logistics end of the business becomes increasingly critical to a winery’s success, Brent’s experience in warehousing and transportation will drive WSC’s capabilities and its member winery successes.
“Brent brings a diverse set of experiences spanning shipping and storage operations, and he possesses all the hallmarks of a strong, solution-oriented executive,” said Steve Tamburelli, President. “As the industry evolves, the importance of moving the product from winery to warehouse to consumer in the most efficient way possible will be a critical success factor. Brent is a vital part of our effort to ensure that our members’ wines are presented at the right time, in the right place, and in optimal condition every time. It’s the promise we make and the promise we’ll keep. For the first time in 30 years, we’re accepting new members and Brent will be vital to maintaining our ‘white glove’ standards as we grow and evolve.”
Ilgen began his career as an Operations Manager at CEVA Logistics, where he launched the LEAN management program and completed a management trainee program in breakbulk, domestic delivery, lineal, logistics, and customs. In 2009, Ilgen joined Cotton On Group, establishing warehouse operations supporting 120 retail outlets in twelve states. Several years later, the company promoted him to Global Group Distribution Manager in Australia to spearhead their expansion goals in Asia, the Middle East, and the U.K.
More recently, Ilgen was responsible for executing a three-year growth strategy for Peets Coffee, establishing an East Coast distribution center and West Coast expansion. This led to improved operational flow and a 30% savings on space and labor. Before coming to Wine Service Cooperative, Ilgen was the Senior Director of Global Distribution & Omni Channel Logistics for Amyris, a B2B distribution supply chain for big-box retailers, including Amazon and Walmart.
About Wine Service Cooperative
Established in 1972, Wine Service Cooperative promotes the growth and success of our member wineries with an integrated suite of DTC and wholesale storage, fulfillment, and logistics services. Our cooperative business model empowers members as owners and drives our core values of accountability and exceptional customer service. We are committed to leveraging best-in-class technology and facilities to streamline the member experience, optimize supply-chain efficiency, and support winery success.
To learn more, visit www.wineservicecooperative.com.
