Steve Beckner, CSW, is the Direct Import & Private Label Wine Buyer at Grocery Outlet, responsible for sourcing imported wines, private label programs and opportunistic wine purchases. A Certified Specialist of Wine, Steve works closely with producers and suppliers to identify wines that fit the retailer’s value-focused buying model.

His work encompasses sourcing opportunities including overstock, overproduction and label changes, helping connect producers’ excess inventory with consumers seeking quality wines at accessible prices. This experience brings a practical commercial perspective to wine evaluation, where quality and value must work together to earn a place on the retail shelf.

As a USA Wine Ratings judge, Steve brings the perspective of an active U.S. retail buyer to the assessment of quality, value and packaging. His background in direct imports, private label and value-driven sourcing supports the competition’s focus on wines with strong consumer appeal and retail potential.