Her Story
About Laurel
Laurel Whitney is the Co-Founder of Push Beverages, a nationally distributed beverage company offering a diverse portfolio of soft drinks, teas, juices, flavored water, and energy beverages across 48 states and international markets. As a serial entrepreneur and business leader, she oversees every aspect of the company, including finance, production, logistics, operations, marketing, and strategic growth. With a hands-on leadership style and a passion for innovation, Laurel has helped transform Push Beverages into a recognized brand within the beverage industry. Before launching Push Beverages, Laurel spent nearly two decades managing one of the largest family-owned vending operations serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. During the 2008 recession, rising costs from major beverage suppliers inspired her to develop an alternative product line for the vending business. What began as a practical solution, quickly evolved into a successful beverage company after the original flavored soda line gained widespread popularity. Together with her family—including her son, who coined the name "Push Beverages"—she expanded the brand to include Tribe Tea, Chu-Chi Juices, PUSH-2-O Water, and the recently introduced Simply Push line, ultimately selling the vending business to focus on the company's continued growth. Laurel holds a master's degree in Communication and Information Studies with a specialization in Public Relations from Rutgers University and began her career in public relations with Johnson & Johnson before transitioning into entrepreneurship. Her expertise spans business development, customer relations, communications, and bringing innovative ideas from concept to market. Recognized for her leadership and business success, Laurel remains committed to building brands that meet evolving consumer preferences while fostering long-term partnerships throughout the beverage industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Laurel
01What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work, extensive research (all before most of the internet had this information) on product, regulations, operations, food science, marketing, and more.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A friend of mine encouraged (or forced me) to "put myself out there". I was always happy to just focus on the brand and be behind the scenes. I never felt the need to bring attention to myself in any way, but Sally taught me that I can't separate myself from the brand and that our story is a huge marketing aspect. In studying other successful female entrepreneurs, I learned this is essential, even though it's out of my comfort zone.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do your research, take the leap and start slowly. Beverage is still a man's world so be prepared to work harder than everyone else!
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Industry consolidation.
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