Events

Upcoming Events

To support our growing community, brands, and sponsors, we offer a mix of networking events, speakers, speaker panels on various topics, and opportunities to connect with some of our experts in smaller groups called DFW CPG Huddles. We mobilize resources in the local community and beyond to enable the success of our brands and our members. And, we host the occasional happy hour!

August 14, 202512:00 pm – 2:00 pm
DTC Reality Check: When Your Brand Is Actually Ready (And When It’s Not)

Many CPG founders see DTC as their path to higher margins and customer control, but the transition isn’t automatic.

Dan Melnick has worked with hundreds of brands navigating the direct-to-consumer shift. As founder of Zing, he’s helped brands understand the real economics behind successful DTC operations. Some found their sweet spot. Others discovered wholesale was their better path.

Here’s what we’ll explore:
The DTC Qualification Framework

· Unit economics that actually work (spoiler: your 40% margins need backup)

· Customer acquisition costs vs. lifetime value fundamentals

· Operational complexity and cash flow implications

Real Numbers, Real Insights

· Why AOV matters more than you think

· The repeat purchase rates that drive sustainability

· Cash conversion cycles and working capital needs

Dan’s Practical Assessment

· DTC vs. Amazon

· Bundling strategies

· Free shipping tipping point

· Signs that wholesale might be your stronger play

Dan will share actual case studies from brands across different categories – what worked, what didn’t, and why.

Who Should Attend: CPG founders exploring DTC, brands optimizing their direct sales channel, and anyone wanting to understand the mechanics behind profitable consumer brands.

The Goal: Help you make an informed decision about DTC based on your specific situation, not industry hype.

Come with your questions!