A version of this article appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Business Central Magazine. It was edited for length, the full article is below.
Business Central Magazine was founded by Gail Ivers at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce in 2000. We are thrilled to be celebrating 25 years of delivering high-quality business news and stories to the Central Minnesota community. For the next six issues, we are taking a look back at the companies that graced the cover during those first few years.
The September/October 2000 issue featured a friendly cheers between two local beverage giants, Viking Coca-Cola Bottling Co. and Bernick’s. Today, both of these organizations are still growing and providing services across the Midwest. We caught up with them to see how the last 25 years have been, and what the future holds…
Viking Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
What has been the most significant change in your business/industry in the past 25 years?
Michael Faber, Owner and CEO: The labor force has transformed over the last couple of decades. People are less likely to invest in their careers with the same company and obtain the in-depth knowledge of the industry they’re participating in. Remote work has expanded domestic and global reach, and automation has increased process efficiency.
What has your growth looked like?
MF: Since the last article 25 years ago, The Faber Family of businesses has expanded its geographic reach, now covering the majority of Minnesota, a larger part of Wisconsin and into Michigan. In addition to expanding its Coca-Cola footprint, it entered the beer industry, mainly aligning with the Molson Coors breweries, and successfully created Armada Coffee, Warrior Energy Drink and Avalanche Ice slush beverage. The Faber Family has more than quadrupled their business over the last two decades.
You’ve been in St. Cloud this whole time. What do you like best about the business community here?
MF: In this local business community, a person’s word still means something, character still has value and people still care about one another. What we know as the norm in this area has actually become something that’s unique in America.
What is something innovative you are doing in business today?
MF: We’re currently in the process of incorporating technology and robotics into human touch points of order building for each customer.
What does the future look like for Viking?
MF: The brands we represent have been and will remain part of our customers’ lives and happiness. It’s a responsibility we’re proud to embrace going into the future as we continue to invest in the local communities we serve.
Business Profile
Viking Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
vikingcocacola.com
(320) 251-4602
sales@vikingcocacola.com
Founded: 1953
Joined Chamber: 1957
Founder: Joe Faber
Owner and CEO: Michael J. Faber
Business Description: Viking Coca-Cola, a privately held company owned by the Faber Family bottles, cans, and distributes a wide variety of beverages to over one-million people.
Then & Now:
- People served in 2000: 500,000; People served in 2025: Over 2 million
- Distribution locations in 2000: 8; Distribution locations in 2025: 14
Bernick’s
What has been the most significant change in your business/industry in the past 25 years? What has your growth looked like?
Dean Bernick, Board Chairman: Our business is nearly unrecognizable compared to 25 years ago. Consumers have changed, customers have evolved and team members have different priorities. We have expanded our geographic territory with beer, soft drinks and full line vending. Through organic growth and strategic acquisitions, Bernick’s has continued its history and passion for growth.
Jason Hinnenkamp, CEO: One of our top changes has been the innovation from our suppliers and the demands from our consumers for new products.
You’ve been in St. Cloud this whole time. What do you like best about the business community here?
JH: The St Cloud business community has always been a great for partnership, with businesses from all industries coming together to help out and work together to grow the surrounding area.
What is something innovative you are doing in business today?
DB: Consumers today want products that are better for you and additional variety, so we have much more to offer than ever before. We have added craft beer, seltzers, and spirit-based ready-to-drink beverages. Our latest efforts include the addition of THC/CBD products and liquor/spirits.
What does the future look like for Bernick’s?
DB: Bernick’s continues to build on a culture that values its customers, team members and the community. We will continue to innovate with new products and look for expansion opportunities.
Business Profile
Bernick’s
bernicks.com
(800) 627-0287
mk@bernicks.com
Founded: 1916
Joined Chamber: 1940
Founder: Charles and Elizabeth Bernick
CEO: Jason Hinnenkamp
Business Description: Bernick’s is a 4th generation family-owned business that proudly distributes Pepsi and Miller beer products, craft beer, waters, energy drinks, juices, coffee, and a wide variety of snacks.
Then & Now:
- Locations in 2000: 4; Locations in 2025: 7
- Employees in 2000: 555; Employees in 2025: 660