Neha Kumar is the co-founder and COO of Full Glass Wine Co., a trailblazing parent company shaping the future of the wine industry through pioneering direct-to-consumer brands. As a seasoned maven with over 14 years of experience, Neha is a changemaker in the world of startups and, through Full Glass Wine Co., is on a dynamic mission to cultivate the next wave of revolutionary consumer brands. In addition to founding Full Glass Wine Co., Neha is also a lecturer at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, where she has been teaching for over 9 years.
Prior to launching her fund, Neha played a key role in Create & Cultivate’s rise to success, holding the helm as its COO & CFO until its successful majority stake acquisition by a Private Equity firm in 2021. Her prowess in deal making came from her time in banking and shone brightly throughout her career. Now, alongside leading Full Glass Wine Co., Neha utilizes her experience to teach high net worth women the ins and outs of investing and deal making with the Women’s Abundance Collective. Neha received her undergraduate degree from the esteemed University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and her MBA from the University of Southern California (USC).
Full Glass Wine Co. has made impressive acquisitions in a short period of time. What’s the strategy behind this rapid expansion?
The strategy behind our rapid acquisitions has a lot to do with being open to opportunities that align with our vision, which is where my ‘year of yes’ philosophy plays a big role. It’s about embracing bold moves that initially feel uncomfortable or uncertain, and trusting in the process. We look for brands that not only fit into our model but also bring something distinct to the table. With Winc, Wine Insider, and Wine Access, we sought out companies that had strong consumer loyalty and unique offerings, and we were able to integrate them in a way that both preserves their individuality and strengthens our portfolio. The goal is to create a unified vision across the brands, allowing them to thrive under Full Glass Wine Co.’s umbrella while capitalizing on synergies in technology, data, and operations.
How does Full Glass Wine Co. differentiate itself in the crowded DTC wine market, especially with its data-driven approach?
Our differentiation is all about saying ‘yes’ to the evolving needs of today’s wine consumers. We don’t just rely on traditional marketing; we integrate technology to create a seamless, personalized experience. This way we make sure that every recommendation, every selection, feels like it was made just for the individual. It’s about being agile, staying in motion, and constantly evolving to meet customer expectations. By leveraging data and personalization, we provide a tailored experience that creates lasting consumer relationships, not just transactions.
What role do you see technology playing in the future of the wine industry, and how is Full Glass Wine Co. incorporating it into the consumer experience?
Technology is absolutely key to the future of the wine industry, and I’ve been focused on saying ‘yes’ to innovative ways of using it. From subscription models to curated experiences, we use tech to simplify the process and elevate the consumer journey. Our data-driven approach helps us understand what customers really want, and that’s what allows us to offer something more than just a bottle of wine—we’re offering an experience. Whether it’s through personalized wine recommendations, improved logistics, or enhanced customer service, technology is helping us reimagine the way people discover and enjoy wine. I see this as just the beginning of how tech will transform the industry.
With your vast experience in startups and acquisitions, what are the key factors you look for when selecting a brand to acquire for Full Glass Wine Co.?
I think a lot of it comes down to a combination of instinct and analysis. I’ve learned to trust my gut, especially when it comes to acquisitions. We look for brands that have a strong identity, a loyal following, and a clear position in the market. But more than that, I want to see if there’s something about the brand that excites me—whether it’s their story, their vision, or their potential for growth. Each acquisition has to feel like the right fit, and once we’re in, the integration is all about building on that foundation while scaling in a way that makes sense for the whole portfolio.
How do you think consumer preferences in the wine industry are changing, and how does Full Glass Wine Co. adapt to these evolving needs?
Consumers are more informed, discerning, and diverse than ever, and I see that as a huge opportunity. We’re seeing a shift toward personalization, sustainability, and educational experiences around wine. Today’s consumer wants more than just a good bottle—they want to feel connected to the brand, understand the story behind the wine, and have the experience tailored to their preferences. We’re adapting by continuously listening to our customers, experimenting with new approaches, and staying flexible to meet their evolving expectations.
As a lecturer at UCLA and mentor at the Women’s Abundance Collective, how do you balance your teaching and investment work with your role at Full Glass Wine Co.?
It all comes down to finding that balance and trusting that I’m in the right place at the right time. Teaching and mentoring through the Women’s Abundance Collective allows me to give back and empower other women to succeed in business and investing. The diversity of my roles actually complements each other, offering me a unique perspective that I bring back to my work with Full Glass Wine Co. It’s a constant balancing act, but one that fuels my passion and creativity.
