James Edward & Companies Group

James Edward & Companies Group, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a dynamic and innovative full-service brokerage firm specializing in beverage distribution.

Established in 1994, the company has grown to become a leading distributor of Red Bull Energy Drink in the United States.

Distribution Entities

The company operates through three primary distribution entities:

• Matador Distributing: Serving Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, Matador manages 108 routes and caters to over 8,000 customers.
• Viva Distributing: Focused on West Texas, Viva operates 45 routes, serving more than 3,000 customers.
• Chaparral Distributing: Covering the Austin Metro area and Texas Hill Country, Chaparral manages 32 routes and serves over 1,800 customers.

These distribution companies collectively service more than 13,000 retailers, employing over 420 individuals across their operations.

Company History

The company's journey began in the early 1990s when Red Bull was gaining popularity in Europe but was virtually unknown in the U.S.

Recognizing the potential of the brand, James "Jim" Rubenstein, the founder and CEO, established James Edward & Companies to introduce Red Bull to the American market.

In 1997, he initiated a partnership with Red Bull North America, leading to the creation of Matador Distributing in 2000. This strategic move marked the beginning of a successful collaboration that has since expanded significantly.

Leadership and Culture

Under Rubenstein's leadership, the company emphasized a culture of innovation, employee development, and a competitive sales environment.

This approach has been instrumental in its growth and success in the beverage distribution industry.

Commitment to Excellence

James Edward & Companies Group's commitment to excellence is evident in its dedicated workforce and its ability to adapt to the evolving beverage market.

This ensures that Red Bull remains a leading energy drink choice for consumers across the United States.

Locations

• Houston, Texas: Headquarters and primary operational center.
• Amarillo, TX, USA: Additional location contributing to West Texas operations.