Fly Wines is a company that helps independent wineries reach consumers across the US through tailored digital marketing strategies. Pulse 2.0 interviewed Fly Wines founder and CEO Stephanie Franklin to learn more about the company.
Stephanie Franklin’s Background
Franklin’s journey into the world of wine began with a passion for exploration and a desire to create unique experiences. And Franklin said:
“With a background in the Adtech and MarTech space, I transitioned into the intricate domain of wine, founding Fly Wines to bridge the gap between hidden gems in the wine world and enthusiasts like myself. My commitment is not just to offer exceptional wines but to curate an inclusive and educational experience.”
Formation Of Fly Wines
How did the idea for the company come together? Franklin shared:
“The concept of Fly Wines emerged during the heart of the pandemic. While enjoying a glass of wine and engaging in a socially distanced conversation with a friend, the idea struck me – a realization of the lack of high-quality wine in wine-tasting boxes. This initial spark ignited a journey that has grown into Fly Wines, a venture dedicated to curating exceptional wine experiences, bringing the finest selections to wine enthusiasts around the world.”
Favorite Memory
What has been your favorite memory working for the company so far? Franklin reflected:
“My most cherished memory at Fly Wines has been witnessing the transformation of a simple idea into a tangible reality. Many people conceive ideas but hesitate to act on them. Experiencing the journey of nurturing a seedling concept into a thriving business has been incredibly rewarding.”
Core Products
What are the company’s core products and features? Franklin explained:
“At Fly Wines, our core offering revolves around curating high-quality wines sourced from independent wineries globally. Our signature wine subscription program provides enthusiasts and novices alike with an opportunity to explore hidden gems from diverse corners of the world. Additionally, we proudly showcase exquisite wine-tasting boxes featuring undiscovered local gems.”
Challenges Faced
What challenges has Franklin faced in building the company? Franklin acknowledged:
“While navigating the intricacies of the alcohol industry, we haven’t encountered any significant bottlenecks recently. Our primary focus involves addressing the usual challenges associated with the highly regulated nature of our sector.”
Significant Milestones
What have been some of the company’s most significant milestones? Franklin cited:
“Fly Wines has achieved significant milestones since its pandemic-era launch, including exclusive global partnerships with independent wineries and media recognition from outlets like Nasdaq and Medium. The successful implementation of virtual wine-tasting events showcases the brand’s adaptability, engaging customers and solidifying its unique market position. The expansion into the San Francisco market and the development of strategic B2B partnerships mark key achievements, underscoring Fly Wines’ growing influence and acceptance.”
Customer Success Stories
After asking Franklin about customer success stories, she highlighted:
“Fly Wines has garnered numerous customer success stories, widely available on our website. These testimonials consistently highlight the exceptional quality of our products and the impressive array of wines we offer. Our customers’ satisfaction and positive experiences underscore the dedication to excellence that defines Fly Wines.”
Differentiation From The Competition
What differentiates the company from its competition? Franklin affirmed:
“Fly Wines stands out by exclusively collaborating with international wineries that are imported into the U.S. This unique approach ensures that customers seeking specific wines can only find them through Fly Wines, creating an exclusive and curated experience. As part of our growth strategy, we aim to expand our distribution to reach customers in other states, further enhancing our distinct market presence.”
Future Company Goals
What are some of the company’s future company goals? Franklin concluded:
“Fly Wines envisions a future where we expand our distribution network across multiple states while offering a wider array of choices through our e-commerce platform. Our goal is to empower consumers to become their own personal sommeliers, enhancing their wine knowledge and ability to articulate their palate preferences. As we grow, we aim to create an environment where wine enthusiasts can explore and appreciate the diverse world of wines with greater depth and confidence.”
