The Good Pour: Transforming Wine and Spirits with Purpose-Driven Community Impact

The Good Pour was born out of Ray Horal’s conviction that people inherently want to do good. After 20 years in the wine and spirits industry, Ray, along with his wife, Giuliana, sought to create a retail space that could harness the sector’s economic power for social impact. Together, they envisioned a marketplace where every purchase would support charitable causes. “We wanted to build the largest lever mankind has ever had to give back,” Ray shares. Fueled by this vision, The Good Pour was launched in Winter Park, FL, transforming everyday transactions into meaningful contributions.

The Good Pour’s team culture revolves around dedication to the mission and mutual respect. Ray describes his team as passionate, supportive, and deeply invested in The Good Pour’s vision. “Our team is here because they believe in something bigger than themselves. This isn’t just a job; it’s a mission,” he says, emphasizing that each team member is committed to creating a positive and uplifting environment. This strong culture has attracted talent driven by more than just a paycheck—they’re drawn to the opportunity to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

The Good Pour sets itself apart in the marketplace by giving customers the power to direct charitable donations from each purchase to causes they care about. Through the Good Pour app, customers can select from a range of charities across categories such as healthcare, the environment, and education. The company also features a “Pour Board™” in-store, displaying the impact made possible by customer choices. “This whole thing is about trust and transparency,” Ray explains, underscoring The Good Pour’s commitment to making each transaction feel meaningful and impactful.

Overcoming Challenges

Launching The Good Pour has not been without hurdles. One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from concept to execution, particularly in securing investor support. “Raising capital for a business that gives away part of its profits on every item isn’t easy,” Ray recalls. Despite these obstacles, he relied on his unwavering belief in the mission, finding that this authenticity resonated with both investors and customers. Through determination and support, The Good Pour is now expanding, with seven new locations planned for the coming year. Ray advises entrepreneurs to embrace the inevitable challenges, saying, “This is what hard feels like—let your belief keep you going.”

The Good Pour’s charitable focus extends beyond transactions. In addition to supporting charities through customer purchases, Ray and his team are actively assisting small liquor stores by bringing them into The Good Pour franchise. One such store, previously struggling to stay open, has seen a remarkable 70% increase in revenue since joining The Good Pour family. For Ray, it’s not just about expanding The Good Pour’s footprint; it’s about offering local businesses a lifeline. “It’s fulfilling to help others thrive,” he notes, adding that this initiative is just one way The Good Pour aims to support communities across the country.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For Ray and his team, being recognized as a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch 2024 honoree is more than just an accolade—it’s a motivator. “This acknowledgment came at a time when our team really needed it,” Ray shares. “It’s a shot in the arm, a reminder that people see what we’re doing, and it keeps us going.” Being celebrated alongside other notable Florida businesses affirms The Good Pour’s commitment to its mission and inspires the team to expand their impact. Ray’s advice to new entrepreneurs centers on resilience: “Understand that starting a business will be hard, and there will be times you question everything,” he says. “If you don’t truly believe in what you’re doing, it will be difficult to endure. Surround yourself with mentors and a support system—it’s mission critical.”

About GrowFL’s Programs

GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW)

The Florida Companies to Watch program, hosted annually by GrowFL, celebrates top second-stage companies across the state for their impressive growth and entrepreneurial success. This prestigious program recognizes 50 standout businesses each year, chosen from hundreds of nominees. Honorees are celebrated for their innovation, economic impact on Florida’s economy, and the ability to scale effectively. Through FLCTW, GrowFL not only acknowledges these companies’ achievements but also brings them into a spotlight that enhances their visibility in the marketplace. The event offers an extraordinary opportunity for networking, sharing best practices, and gaining exposure to potential investors and partners, making it a cornerstone for fostering business growth and recognition within Florida’s vibrant business community.