Meet Adam O’Connor | Founder, Smidge Beverage Co.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adam O’Connor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adam, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After having worked in the wine and spirits business for 3 years I realized how prevalent alcohol options were in every social setting and how it’s such a huge part of society. I thought to myself, “Why aren’t there any options for people that want something ultra-light in alcohol and calories?” With the rise of non-alcoholic options like Athletic Brewing and mocktails, I scoured the market for the lowest alcohol by volume (abv) options in my local grocery and liquor stores. The results were shocking. There were plenty of options in the 4-5% abv range, only a few in the 3-4% range, and virtually below 3%. Those that were under 3% didn’t make it obvious enough that they were this low in alcohol and calories and they were part of a larger company conglomerate that makes dozens of other products.
I set out to create my own that specifically focused on a low alcohol offering of 2.5% abv and just 50 calories. I wanted something for people to have at almost any occasion. Brunch, afternoon, pool side, golfing, or even in between their regular drink of choice. Selfishly if I wanted something like this I knew that there would be other customers looking for the same.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Smidge Beverage Co. was founded to bridge the gap between the non-alcoholic market and regular strength. We are dedicated to producing great tasting beverages at 2.5% abv for the in-between so you can have fun and feel good! Our commitment extends beyond the can. We’ve pledged to donate 2.5% of our profits towards pediatric cancer research. We inspire individuals to drink responsibly and find what works for them while being mindful in all aspects of their lives.
It has been a year since launch in retail stores last August and I am most proud of our initial response to our concept and product. We have seen the impact it has had on our consumers that were looking for something light but didn’t have the option to choose from.
It took nearly 10 months to go from concept to can on the shelf. It consisted of jumping through many hoops, lots of mistakes, frustration, and crawling before we could walk. I was fortunate to have a background in the wine and spirits industry, but it still came with many learnings.
In entrepreneurship there are many highs and many lows. Often times, these highs and lows can be within the same day, even within several hours. It took a long time to learn how to ride these waves and remain calm. When the hard times come, they are hard, but the good times are also hard. Leaning on mentors, friends, and family has been critical to staying the course. I have also been fortunate to have many resources of books, podcasts, and other peers to lean on and ask for advice.
The biggest lesson I have learned thus far is that companies don’t die because the company fails – they die because the entrepreneur gives up. Part of the game is staying in it long enough. Preparation is the greater part of luck. Chance favors those who work. This requires determination, resilience, and a purpose greater than making money.
I want the world to know that if you have an idea that will solve a problem for others, find a way to do that. As my late grandmother said to her children, “Our purpose in life is to help others along way. May each of you try to do the same.” At Smidge Beverage Co., we are dedicated to helping others by providing an alternative option to drink alcohol more responsibly while still feeling good about it and reduce the negative effects that come with drinking.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Phoenix has become a hot bed for new restaurants, bars, and an array of activities across the different cities throughout the state. Here’s a short running list of places and things in Phoenix I’d recommend as a native Arizonan when it’s not summertime.
-Hike Camelback or Piestewa Peak
-Visit Roosevelt Row Arts District
-Lunch or dinner at Pizzeria Bianco
-Heard Museum
-See a show at Crescent Ballroom
-Grab a beer at The Wandering Tortoise
-Salt River tubing

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my parents, Scott and Joanie. Aside from doing an exceptional job raising me as one of their three children, they have been my biggest cheerleaders and support system as I’ve embarked on my journey with Smidge. Without their support I would have neither started nor made it as far as I have in one year. They both are an inspiration to me having been entrepreneurs their entire careers and I feel a deep obligation to follow in their footsteps. Thank you for believing in me.

Website: https://www.smidgebeverage.com/

Instagram: smidgebeverage