Harbor Distributing sells and distributes beer — a lot of it.
The Huntington Beach-based distributor sells and distributes over 46.5 million cases to 12,000-plus customers each year in a territory that stretches from Malibu in Los Angeles County to San Clemente in Orange County.
Founded in 1976, the local division joined Reyes Beer Division in 1989. Each year, oodles of beer move out of this state-of-the-art distribution center thanks to the work of more than 500 people.
They include delivery drivers, salespeople, merchandisers and warehouse crews. There’s also a large shared services department for accounts payable, human resources and other support roles.
Led by general manager Mike Ciriza, who heads up the West Coast headquarters of the Reyes Beer Division, the company’s mission is to be “the elite beverage distributor in the nation.”
To do that, Harbor Distributing counts on values it lists as integrity, accountability, responsibility, teamwork, wellness and humility. Those core values are working, they say, leading the company to win multiple national, state and local accolades for its workforce and, more importantly, for providing a coveted place to work.
So, it comes as no surprise the company has been honored again among Orange County’s Top Workplaces for a third consecutive year.
Employees who responded to the Top Workplaces survey described Harbor Distributing’s culture as promoting freedom, caring about job performance, flexibility to balance work with life, and, of course, “loving delivering beer.”
We asked Ciriza to describe a bit of the company’s philosophy. His answers have been edited for length.
Q. Your company is where people enjoy their jobs and feel rewarded; why is that?
Our people are our most important asset. Recognizing this, we create a workplace of choice by prioritizing engagement and development of our employees.
One way we do this is through regular recognition, or what we call giving “Cheers!” which focuses on thanking employees for their outstanding work, whether in the warehouse or out in the trade. This can be done verbally or digitally through our app.
Not only do our leaders recognize their team members, but employees are also encouraged to give cheers cards to one another, recognizing peers for their support and hard work. This emphasizes teamwork and collaboration within and across departments, thus building a positive working environment.
Q. What’s the culture like? What do you look for in a new employee, whether it is entry-level or management?
The best word to describe our culture is “family.” As a family-owned business, we take the time to understand and invest in our employees.
We are proactive with our Open Door Policy by hosting regular listening sessions and engagement meetings to get feedback and brainstorm ways we can improve.
Frontline employees have a direct line of communication with executive leadership, where they are encouraged to share any thoughts and suggestions they may have. This sets the groundwork for the communication and trust that is vital for our fast-paced and growing company.
When looking for others to join our team, whether entry-level or management, we not only look for individuals who are adaptable to change and eager to grow, but also for those who align with our values and culture.
Q. Have company perks been changed or cut back?
We do our best to retain company perks despite external economic factors because we want our team to know they are always valued. We continue to celebrate our employees through appreciation weeks, recognition events, and our annual family fun carnival, in addition to branded swag and beer for holiday occasions.
Q. Has staffing been impacted? Are you cutting back or adding?
No. We continue to hire as we have in the past and are always looking to add new talent to our team.
Q. What tips would you give others in creating an environment of employee success? Are there management tips you’ve seen elsewhere and now employ?
Take the time to know and invest in your people. To help your team succeed, it is important to provide them with the resources they need while also removing any obstacles they may have. One way to get to know your team and build positive relationships is through regular one-on-one interactions and being available and present.
Harbor Distributing
Founded: 1976
Headquarters: Huntington Beach
Industry: beverage distribution
OC employees: 545
Website: reyesbeveragegroup.com/
Quote: At Harbor Distributing, we prioritize people and are committed to providing a winning culture that benefits our employees, customers, brewer partners and communities.” — Mike Ciriza, general manager of Harbor Distributing
