Author: Sarah Oslund

Johnson Brothers Announces Leadership Changes in Minnesota

Johnson Brothers, a leading distributor of wine, spirits, and beer, is pleased to announce two key leadership appointments in Minnesota, effective January 1, 2025.

John Dempsey has been named General Manager for Johnson Brothers of Minnesota. John brings nearly three decades of industry expertise and a proven track record of success in leadership roles. He joined Johnson Brothers in 2001 and has since served in various capacities across multiple states, including as General Manager for Johnson Brothers of Nevada and, most recently, as General Manager for Johnson Brothers of Virginia. In his new role, John will report directly to A.J. Atta, who will assume the role of Regional President, West, for Johnson Brothers on January 1, 2025.

Nathan Johnson has been promoted to Vice President of Sales for Minnesota. Since joining Johnson Brothers in 2015, Nathan has held numerous leadership roles within the company over the years. His deep understanding of the Minnesota market and ability to foster key customer and supplier relationships have been instrumental in the success of our customer service and regional chain teams. Nathan will report to John Dempsey in his new role.

Johnson Brothers has proudly served the Minnesota market for the past 72 years, earning a reputation for excellence and unwavering commitment to its customers and suppliers. The company’s recognition as one of Newsweek’s Most Trustworthy Companies in America for 2023 and 2024 further underscores its dedication to delivering exceptional service and fostering trusted relationships across the industry.

“These appointments reflect our commitment to investing in strong leadership that aligns with our core values and drives success for our supplier partners and customers,” said George Marsden, Chief Commercial Officer for Johnson Brothers. “John and Nathan bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision for continuing the growth and leadership we have built in Minnesota for over seven decades.”

Johnson Brothers Announces Key Leadership Promotions

Johnson Brothers, a leading distributor of wine, beer, and spirits, announces two leadership promotions effective January 1, 2025. AJ Atta has been named President of the West Region, overseeing operations in Minnesota, Hawaii, Iowa, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Scott Cash has been appointed President of the East Region, managing operations in Florida, Indiana, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia, along with the United Johnson Brothers partnership in Alabama/Mississippi.

Atta, who joined Johnson Brothers in 2016, has been a key driver of growth through strategic partnerships and innovation, previously serving as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Minnesota. “AJ’s leadership has been essential to our success, and we’re excited for him to take on this expanded role,” said George Marsden, Chief Commercial Officer.

“I’m honored to take on this new role and continue building on the strong foundation we’ve created in the West,” said Atta. “Our teams consistently surpass expectations, and I’m eager to work alongside them as we drive growth and deliver value to our customers and suppliers.”

Cash, who joined during the 2018 acquisition of Mutual Distributing, has led significant growth in North Carolina and previously served as Vice President and General Manager. “Scott’s expertise will be vital as we continue to expand in the East,” said Marsden.

“I’m incredibly proud of our achievements in North Carolina and the strong relationships we’ve built with customers and suppliers,” said Cash. “I look forward to continuing that momentum across the East Region, focusing on delivering excellence and driving innovation.”

Both leaders will focus on driving growth, operational excellence, and strengthening supplier partnerships in their respective regions.

Johnson Brothers Expands Relationship with Whitehall Lane Winery

Johnson Brothers, a family-owned and operated distributor since 1953, is excited to announce the expansion of its partnership with Whitehall Lane Winery into the Nebraska market beginning October 1. This move adds to existing collaboration in Hawaii, Indiana, and North Carolina. The luxury division of Johnson Brothers, Oxford Street Merchants, will oversee management of the portfolio.

Whitehall Lane, a family-owned Napa Valley winery, is renowned for its exceptional hospitality and authentic wines, primarily crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals. Since acquiring the winery in 1993, the Leonardini family has upheld traditional winemaking values while embracing innovation, sustainable practices, and diversity. Their commitment to modern technology, eco-friendly farming, and creative winemaking ensures a warm, approachable experience for wine lovers, preserving the winery’s legacy for future generations.

“Johnson Brothers shares our family-owned values and commitment to quality, making them the ideal partner to help us extend our reach in Nebraska,” said Tom Leonardini II, Proprietor and Vice President of Whitehall Lane Winery. “We look forward to sharing the distinctive character and tradition of Whitehall Lane wines with even more Nebraskans through this collaboration.”

“We are pleased to further our partnership with Whitehall Lane, a family-owned winery that shares our passion for quality and commitment to excellence,” said Yale Johnson, President of Sales for Johnson Brothers, who leads Oxford Street Merchants. “Together, we look forward to driving the business to new heights throughout the Cornhusker state.”