Financial analysis isn’t about crunching numbers for the sake of it.
For beer wholesalers, financial analysis is about turning raw data into actionable insights that drive better decisions.
Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, understanding what the numbers are telling you is the first step to improving margins, controlling costs, and boosting profitability.
#1 Know Your Key Metrics
Focus on a handful of meaningful KPIs. Net operating income, gross margin per case, inventory turns, days sales outstanding (DSO), and operating expense ratios are a great starting point.
These metrics will tell you how efficiently your business is running.
#2 Use Trend Analysis
A single number doesn’t tell a story—but trends do.
Compare your KPIs month-over-month and year-over-year.
Are margins holding steady? Are costs creeping up?
Spotting these trends early gives you time to course-correct before small issues become big problems.
#3 Build a Simple Scorecard
Create a financial scorecard with your top 5–10 metrics.
Update the scorecard monthly and share it with your leadership team.
When everyone sees the numbers and understands them, alignment and accountability follow naturally.
#4 Action is the Outcome
The goal of financial analysis isn’t just insight—it’s action. If your inventory turns are slowing, adjust purchasing.
If margins are eroding, revisit pricing and discount strategies. Numbers are only powerful when they lead to decisions.
Bottom line: Use financial analysis as a tool, not a task.
The beer business is competitive and complex, but when you know your numbers, you gain an advantage.
Do this next
- Watch the short video below: Financial Analysis Basics
- Learn more about the Beer Business Finance Association – a network of wholesaler owners and managers working together to improve financial results
