Innovation

Peerless Beverage Company is powered by a Photovoltaic Solar Electric Generation system that supplies 90% of its electricity, which aligns with UN SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and UN SDG 13 (Climate Action). This initiative began when New Jersey prioritized solar energy through tax breaks and funding, known as the Clean Energy Act. Jake Beim stated that when the state adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks program, Peerless replaced standard-engine trucks with electric delivery trucks. These sustainable technology practices ensure their devotion to creating a significant positive impact on our environment.

Beyond environmental methods, Peerless is committed to building a healthy and safe working environment for its employees. To ensure these safe practices, Beim explained the new role Peerless created called the Culture Director. These directors and/or speakers foster a positive working environment that aligns with HR practices. Peerless frequently brings in these speakers to discuss a wide variety of topics, such as healthy eating habits, proper forms of lifting heavy products, evacuation plans, and many more programs to increase employees’ successful recoveries. These safe procedures address UN SDG 8 (Decent Work and Growth).

As stated by Beim, Peerless Beverage Company is also deeply committed to community partnerships, such as its relationship with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, and donates to over 100 local funds and programs every year. The owners of Peerless participate on the Board of Directors and the Emerging Leaders Board for the Food Bank. They are involved in all of the Food Bank’s programs in New Jersey. Peerless also runs food, clothing, and turkey drives during the holiday seasons to give back to the community. This innovation directly addresses UN SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Inspiration

When New Jersey started providing tax cuts and incentives for solar energy and electric vehicles, Peerless was inspired to take action. Beim explained the company's desire to "do more for the environment." What is encouraging is how Peerless grasped the opportunity to align with a larger aim to reduce environmental impact, not merely to save money. This demonstrates a culture that is driven by values rather than just compliance. Peerless actively engages with the community through contributions, volunteer work, and direct leadership positions, such as their affiliation with the Community Foodbank of New Jersey. Beim stated, "We take great pride in giving back to our community in whatever ways we can. These fit in well with our overall values.” This demonstrates a sincere goal that goes beyond financial gain. Establishing a position such as Culture Director adds another level of thoughtful innovation by demonstrating Peerless' concern for internal safety and well-being in addition to external sustainability. Peerless has remained dedicated to the long-term advantages, despite the fact that the immediate benefits weren't initially apparent, which is an indication of truly sustainable thinking.

Overall impact

Peerless has made significant strides in sustainable business practices through their strategic decision to invest in solar panels and electric delivery trucks, as Beim stated, which perfectly aligns with their environmental goals. The company’s commitment to cleaner energy sources demonstrates their forward-thinking approach to business operations. Beyond their environmental initiatives, Peerless has established itself as a cornerstone of community support in New Jersey. Their involvement extends far beyond their core business of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage and snack distribution, with the immense support of several local programs. This comprehensive approach to business and community establishes a foundation for a lasting positive impact in the region.

Business benefit

Peerless Beverage Company has benefited tremendously from its adoption of sustainable innovations, from the use of solar energy systems to electric delivery trucks. Because of these innovations, the company is now positioned as a progressive distributor in the competitive New Jersey alcohol and beverage market. This allowed the company to strategically adapt to state-level shifts toward cleaner energy.

Peerless was able to make sustainability improvements by purchasing solar panels and electric trucks during a time when the state offered tax breaks, which provided some financial assistance. According to Beim, these innovations reduced fuel costs, though these savings were balanced out by new costs in equipment such as batteries, computers, and wiring repairs. Peerless' obvious efforts to be sustainable have also improved its brand equity and reputation. Peerless is far ahead of the curve as these practices become increasingly common in the industry, which enables it to influence partners and peers while reaffirming its reputation as a value-focused company.

These developments have helped in organizational and cultural growth. Employee morale has increased, and retention has been encouraged as a result of the hiring of a Culture Director to advance workplace health, safety, and the incorporation of sustainability into company values. Employee loyalty and job satisfaction are strengthened when they observe the connection between everyday tasks and more general community goals.

The immediate financial rewards of sustainability initiatives might seem small, but the long-term business benefits, such as fuel savings, regulatory preparedness, brand value, and employee satisfaction, highlight the deeper advantages of these innovations. Peerless' actions show how, over time, operational sustainability can result in multiple business returns, especially when it aligns with internal culture, community values, and state incentives.

Social and environmental benefit

Peerless Beverage Company demonstrates an impressive commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. Their community impact is particularly impressive through their partnership with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. Peerless donates to hundreds of local charities, such as Holiday Express, St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Make a Wish, St. John’s Soup Kitchen, Jason’s Friends Foundation, and many more. As stated on their website, “The secret behind Peerless Beverage’s success? It’s all about the community. Our journey is fueled by the support we’ve received, and it’s our mission to pour that same support back into the community that’s always been there for us. Internally, Peerless prioritizes employee wellbeing through their Culture Director position, offering health and safety programs.”

Peerless Beverage Company’s adoption of the Photovoltaic Solar Electric Generation system and electric delivery trucks represents a significant step toward reducing environmental impact in the beverage distribution industry. The solar energy system helps offset the company’s electrical consumption, which recently increased due to greater power demands from modernized operations. "We know that by moving to solar energy, we are helping reduce the carbon footprint that offset the new increase in our electric usage," Beim stated. By transitioning to solar power, Peerless actively reduces its reliance on traditional energy sources that typically contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Their fleet of electric delivery trucks further enhances their environmental initiatives by decreasing diesel fuel emissions in the communities they serve. While reduced fuel expenses are balanced by new equipment maintenance and increased electrical usage, the environmental benefit of decreased carbon emissions and reduced air pollution in New Jersey’s counties demonstrates Peerless’s meaningful contribution to cleaner air and sustainable business practices.

Interview

Jake Beim, Vice President