From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-01 07:02:00

Jomaree Pinkard turned a hobby with friends into a multimillion-dollar business, Hella Cocktail Co., partnering with Delta Airlines, Disney, and TGI Fridays. The company started in 2012, creating bitters, mixers, and canned beverages now in 20,000+ locations. Pinkard’s business acumen led to major partnerships and success after leaving his NFL job.

After launching Hella Cocktail Co. in 2012 with friends Ludwig and Simeón, Pinkard secured partnerships with major brands like Disney and Delta Airlines. The company, born from a hobby, grew steadily. Pinkard’s financial strategies propelled Hella to national recognition and lucrative deals, proving that passion can turn into profit.

Pinkard, the business mastermind behind Hella Cocktail Co., left his NFL consulting job to pursue his dream. Together with his friends, they built the company from a hobby into a national success, partnering with big brands like Disney and Delta Airlines. Their slow burn of success paid off, showcasing the power of dedication and passion.

As the driving force behind Hella Cocktail Co.’s success, Pinkard brokered deals with major companies, making the brand a household name. After a scary leap into entrepreneurship, Pinkard, Ludwig, and Simeón saw their business flourish. The trio embodied the entrepreneurial spirit, transforming a hobby into a thriving business.

Hella Cocktail Co. founder Pinkard navigated the company’s growth, stepping away briefly to lead Pronghorn, a fund for Black-owned businesses. Learning from other entrepreneurs, Pinkard brought valuable insights back to Hella as CEO. Discipline, accountability, and adaptability were key lessons, proving that leadership and vision drive success in the business world.



Read more at Yahoo Finance: This Gen Xer turned $2,500 on a credit card into a multimillion-dollar business and quit his 9-to-5 for good