Scaling an Office Snack Business Nationwide with Claude Burns, USNA ‘06
Mar 13, 2025
“You learn a lot more from your defeats or your struggles than you do from the obvious successes.” – Claude Burns, USNA ‘06
Claude Burns is a visionary entrepreneur, veteran, and startup founder transforming the workplace food and beverage industry. A former Navy Officer, he brings a mission-driven approach to leadership, strategy, and innovation.
As the Founder and CEO of Office Libations, he is redefining B2B food service with a tech-driven model that optimizes inventory, reduces costs, and enhances service. Competing with industry giants, Office Libations has rapidly expanded operations across multiple markets, serving Fortune 500 firms and high-growth startups with a seamless, scalable solution. By combining technology with hospitality, Claude has built a company that delivers both efficiency and exceptional service, reshaping how businesses approach workplace amenities. With a strong foundation in operations and business growth, he is leading Office Libations toward national expansion, setting a new standard in workplace hospitality and industry innovation.
In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Claude about:
Revolutionizing Office Hospitality: Blending technology, efficiency, and premium service to transform workplace perks.
Thriving Through Uncertainty: Overcoming the loss of 95% of revenue and staff, making tough decisions, and rebuilding through resilience and innovation.
Taking on Industry Giants: Competing with legacy providers by delivering smarter, tech-driven solutions.
Fueling Fortune 500 Workplaces: Providing top-tier coffee, snacks, and drinks to leading companies.
Scaling for Impact: Expanding into new markets and redefining the future of workplace amenities.
Timestamps:
00:17 Reflecting on the Past: January 24th, 2020
01:13 Introduction to Office Libations
02:30 Impact of the Pandemic on Business
03:35 Surviving the Gauntlet: Strategies and Adaptations
08:16 Rebuilding and Innovating Post-Pandemic
14:11 Future Goals and Expansion Plans
23:51 Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Connect with Claude Burns:
If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.
Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:
Leave us a 5-star review!
A special thank you to Claude Burns for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01