J. Christopher Reyes

Early Life and Education

J. Christopher Reyes was born in 1953. He is the eldest son of Joseph A. Reyes and Frances Marie Reyes. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland.

Rise to Success

In 1976, along with his brother and father, Reyes purchased a small Schlitz beer distribution business in Spartanburg, South Carolina. This marked the beginning of his business career. Reyes Holdings aggressively acquired beer distribution businesses and brands, accumulating more than 130 beer distribution operations since its inception. In April 1998, Reyes Holdings expanded beyond beer distribution by acquiring the Martin-Brower Company, a McDonald's distribution business operating in the US and internationally. Reyes Holdings now includes Reyes Beverage Group, the largest beer distributor in the U.S.

Key Business Strategies

Key business strategies have involved aggressive acquisitions and expansion. The company expanded into food distribution and logistics. Reyes Holdings has also diversified its portfolio by venturing into Coca-Cola production and distribution. They have acquired several companies and expanded its reach across the United States and internationally.

Philanthropy

Reyes is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors and serves as a distinguished lifetime director of Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. He is also a director of Northwestern Memorial Healthcare and a trustee of Ronald McDonald House Charities and the University of Notre Dame.