Founder Shelbi Herring Moves into Advisor & Chairwoman Role After 17 Years Leading the Company
December 17, 2025 (Oakland, CA) — Copa Fina Wine Imports today announced that Lauren Koenig has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026. Founder Shelbi Herring, who has served as CEO since the company’s inception in 2009, will transition into the role of Advisor and Chairwoman of the Board.
Koenig’s promotion reflects a long-planned leadership evolution and marks the beginning of the next generation for Copa Fina. Over more than a decade with the company, she has helped build the operational foundation, team culture, and market strategy that support Copa Fina’s owned distribution businesses in California, Arizona, and Nevada, along with its growing national presence through select distribution partnerships in 12 additional states.
“Lauren is integral to Copa Fina,” said Herring. “She understands this business at every level, from our winery partnerships and market dynamics to our team and execution in the field. She has already been leading much of the day-to-day with exceptional strength. This transition simply formalizes what has long been clear: Lauren is the right leader to guide Copa Fina into its next chapter.”
Since its founding, Copa Fina has grown from representing 14 wines from Mendoza to a portfolio of more than 150 wineries across its multiple distribution markets. Koenig has been central to that growth, working closely with Herring to expand distribution, strengthen brand development, and build the organizational foundation that supports the company’s continued success.
Herring emphasized that while the leadership structure is evolving, the company remains fully founder-owned and its core values remain unchanged.
“Our ownership structure, our team, and our commitment to long-term winery partnerships remain exactly the same,” Herring added. “With Lauren’s leadership, and with the strength and dedication of our entire team, Copa Fina is well positioned for the next decade of growth, innovation, and impact.”
“It is an honor to step into the CEO role,” said Koenig. “Shelbi has built something extraordinary over the past 17 years, and I am grateful for her mentorship and for the opportunity to lead Copa Fina into its next chapter. Our team, our partners, and our portfolio are stronger than ever. Even in a market where many are feeling the pressure of economic headwinds, we see meaningful opportunities to grow thoughtfully across both independent and chain channels, including continued portfolio expansion across wine and spirits. We are confident in the path ahead.”
About Copa Fina Wine Imports
Founded in 2009 by Shelbi Herring, Copa Fina Wine Imports is a family-owned importer representing more than 150 wineries across its distribution companies in California, Arizona, and Nevada, as well as through select partners nationwide. Copa Fina is known for its hands-on approach to brand building, deep supplier relationships, and a team rooted in integrity, curiosity, and execution. Today, the company continues to expand its curated portfolio of wine and spirits while bringing thoughtful, relationship-driven service to retailers and restaurants throughout the United States. For more information, visit https://www.copafina.com.
