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Dia Simms

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Meet The Spirits Industry Vets Helping The Black Community Generate $2B In Economic Value In The U.S.

Diageo is on a mission to diversify the spirits industry! According to a press release, the global leader in beverage alcohol has teamed up with industry veterans Dia Simms and Erin Harris in order to build an inclusive and diverse economic initiative with the goal of creating the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs, executive leaders, and founders in both a sustainable and scalable way. Pronghorn is the name of the all-new partnership and it will create a standalone business with a primary focus on expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion within the spirits industry. “Diversifying the industry accelerates innovation and competitiveness, and our strategic approach to recruit, retain and advance the Black community and communities of color within the industry alongside Diageo North America couldn’t be more necessary and timely,” said Pronghorn co-founder, Erin Harris in a statement. “We understand first-hand the importance of being motivated and the critical need for ownership...

Shanique Yates

May 27, 2021

CEO of Lobos 1707 Dia Simms is Building a 'Bigger Table' For a More Inclusive Spirits Industry

Every move corporate powerhouse Dia Simms makes is to create more opportunities for minorities and women. “Representation is sorely lacking, and I really believe it’s important that we make sure we repeat that over and over again — and change it. ” The former DeLeón executive was recently named the CEO of Lobos 1707, a luxe tequila and mezcal brand founded by Diego Osorio and backed by basketball star LeBron James. Simms’ inspiration for her journey began in East Elmhurst, Queens, where she had a front-row seat to Salt-N-Pepa who danced in a neighboring backyard. Witnessing this female duo grow into a global phenomenon subconsciously impacted her to see the power in culture and the almighty buying power of the Black community. Since then, Simms has served as the first president of Combs Enterprises and one of the few Black women to navigate the spirits world as an executive. So, how can Black women have a seat at the table? Simms suggests that “we build a bigger table.” Editorial...

Niki McGloster

Mar 23, 2021

LeBron James Invests in New Tequila Founded by Former Deleón Exec Dia Simms

LeBron James is the king of off-court investments. Back in November, the Lakers player invested in Lobos 1707 Tequila, an agave spirits brand founded by former Deleón execs Dia Simms and Diego Osorio, reports The Spirits Business. James and his longtime business partner Maverick Carter co-led the backing as part of the Main Street Advisors’ (MSA) investment group. Additionally, basketball players Anthony Davis and Draymond Green, American sports agent Rich Paul, and investment firm Torch Capital have backed the tequila brand. “I knew the first time I tasted Lobos 1707 Tequila that it was special,” said James. “Lobos 1707 is about celebrating the strength of the group and bringing people together. It’s about shared passion and values. I love sipping Tequila with my friends, and we want a brand that speaks to us.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dia Simms (@diasimms) Lobos 1707 is a 100 percent espadín agave roasted in an open Oaxacan fire pit. The brand includes an...

Niki McGloster

Dec 30, 2020