About WSW 77th Annual Convention & Exposition
The WSWA Annual Convention & Exposition is the largest U.S. event uniting the beverage alcohol industry. Featuring buy-sell engagements, high-level information panels, wine and spirits competitions, and C-Suite level networking — this event has been a premier destination for beverage alcohol wholesalers and suppliers since its inception in 1943. Distributor attendees represent more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States, and exhibitors are comprised of some of the most exciting established and up-and-coming brands in the marketplace.
Visit www.wswaconvention.org or connect across our social platforms on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube or follow #WSWA77.
GENERAL
The WSWA 77th Annual Convention & Exposition will be the largest and most advantageous U.S. event uniting the industry. Two packed exhibit halls will showcase new and existing brands along with valuable products and services. Don’t miss WSWA’s Traditional and Lower Level Suites filled with current and potential portfolio partners.
Join your peers for the WSWA 77th Annual Convention & Exposition April 20-23, 2020 at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas!
EXHIBIT HALLS
Exhibit space for WSWA77 is selling at a faster pace than ever before! The Octavius Exhibit Hall is SOLD OUT, Lower Level and Traditional Suites are NEARLY GONE, so reserve your space in the Julius Exhibit Hall before it’s too late. This exhibit hall is conveniently surrounded by highly-trafficked Lower Level Suites, highlights include:
- A state-of-the-art Bar Studio where industry trendsetters go to showcase products they discover on the show floor.
- The WSWA TV Studio where wholesaler heavy-hitters will discuss the latest trends and hot topics facing the beverage alcohol industry.
- Podcast nooks mean you can be interviewed by beverage industry personalities and gain exposure.
- And much more!
The WSWA 77th Annual Convention & Exposition is where the industry goes to Raise The Bar. Don’t miss out!
BRAND BATTLE
Wednesday, April 22, 4:00 — 5:30 pm
Brand Battle, WSWA’s version of Shark Tank, is one of the greatest ways for new and emerging brands to build buzz and gain attention from decision-makers at the WSWA Convention. Participants pitch their products to a panel of industry influencers live onstage before an audience of convention attendees. Companies like Seaside Grown, Boukman Rhum, The London Essence Co., and Gray Whale Gin have found success as Brand Battle contenders in years past. Back for its 5th annual installment, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!
Click to enter. Brands don’t have to exhibit at the convention to be eligible to enter. Applications are due March 20.
TASTE OF THE INDUSTRY
Wednesday, April 22, 5:30 — 7:00 pm
A festive, high-traffic event where you meet wholesalers and showcase your brands. One of the highlights of the convention. Purchase a table here.
TASTING COMPETITIONS
Tuesday, April 21
A great way to build buzz! WSWA medals look great on your marketing materials. Find info and register here. Deadline to enter is March 20.
SUPPLIER AND RETAILER LEADERSHIP SERIES
Thursday, April 22, 10:30 — 2:00 pm
Engage with experts in panels and information-rich sessions that take on the most important issues and challenges facing the industry. Sessions this year include:
* Leveraging the Alcohol Supply Chain to Advance Your Brands
* SipSource Lessons, Patterns and Predictions
* What Today’s Cocktail Culture Can Tell You About Tomorrow’s Marketplace
AWARD WINNERS
Andrew Crisses -WSWA Lifetime Leadership Award
Now in its nineteenth year, the prestigious Lifetime Leadership award recognizes industry professionals who have made significant and lasting industry contributions that have led to the most successful alcohol marketplace the world has ever seen. This year’s award will be presented during the General Session on Tuesday, April 21 to Andrew Crisses, Principal and current Executive Vice President of Breakthru Beverage Group.
Barbara Banke – Sidney Frank Innovation Award
Given by the WSWA Educational Foundation, this award honors individuals in the industry who define a new standard. Winners have not only advanced their companies but have also elevated the stature of the industry and generously contributed to their communities through philanthropy. This year’s winner is Barbara Banke, Chairman and Proprietor of Jackson Family Wines.
