BevMo! executive Kim Tsujimoto to be honored at San Francisco gala

Capstone Initiative Group and Tasting Panel Magazine will honor Kim Tsujimoto, Senior Category Manager of Spirits for BevMo! by Gopuff, at a Sept. 5 gala in San Francisco. The event is expected to draw more than 300 industry leaders and raise funds for Bay Area nonprofit Hope Services.

Why it matters: - The award spotlights a beverage executive whose work has shaped spirits retail, supplier relationships and category strategy over the past decade. - The gala also raises money for Hope Services, linking an industry celebration to a local nonprofit serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs.

What happened: - Capstone Initiative Group, in partnership with Tasting Panel Magazine, will present the Capstone Visionary Leadership Award to Kim Tsujimoto. - The gala is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at The Conservatory at One Sansome in San Francisco. - Tsujimoto is Senior Category Manager of Spirits for BevMo! by Gopuff. - More than 300 industry leaders are expected to attend.

The details: - The event will recognize Tsujimoto’s impact on BevMo! by Gopuff’s spirits portfolio and on the retail consumer experience. - The program will also honor her role in connecting national brands, local suppliers and distributor channels. - Tsujimoto serves as Honorary Event Chairperson for the Christermon Foundation. - Tsujimoto also advocates for industry scholarships. - Natasha Swords, executive director of Capstone Initiative Group, called Tsujimoto “truly beloved in this industry” and said the gala reflects the respect she has earned. - Colleagues, partners and industry veterans are expected to share stories and pay tribute during the evening. - The gala benefits Hope Services, a Bay Area nonprofit founded in 1952 in San Jose. - Hope Services supports inclusive communities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. - The event is supported by William Grant & Sons, Bronco Wine Company and Moët & Chandon. - The Event Advisory Board includes Meridith May, Jim Moeller, Michael Marshall and Brandon Bartlett. - Event format is cocktail/business. - Tables of 10 cost $5,000. - Individual tickets cost $750. - Seating is limited.

Between the lines: - The award positions Tsujimoto as a bridge between corporate buying, brand growth and industry philanthropy. - The sponsor list and advisory board suggest the gala is designed to draw broad trade support, not just a single-company audience. - The nonprofit beneficiary gives the event a charitable hook that extends beyond recognition of one executive.

What's next: - Attendees can reserve a table or request attendance information by emailing natasha@awardspanel.com. - More information is available at the event website. - Capstone Initiative Group also lists more information at its website.