Mega-wholesalers and consolidation have dominated the news cycle over the last six months, so in order to balance the scales a bit, your editors gathered a panel of independent distributors at our recent Summit to weigh in on their unique set of challenges and opportunities. The panel featured Corey Bronstein, svp and general manager Allied Beverage Group; Robert Lipman, president and ceo Lipman Brothers; and Sue McCollum, chairman and ceo Major Brands. The panelists discussed what it's like working in a franchise state, their take on trends, and their relationships with suppliers.