The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) has been admitted to the World Spirits Alliance (WSA) based in Geneva, Switzerland.
The KDA has represented the bourbon industry in Kentucky since 1880 and now has over 100 members. As a WSA member, the KDA enters a new era as the voice of bourbon among the world’s leading spirits and will benefit from increased collaboration across the industry.
The WSA is the international trade association of the industry and acts as a representative partner and discussion partner vis-à-vis international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN).
The WSA provides its member producers and leading trade groups with a platform to exchange best practices and jointly comment on issues of global importance, particularly in the areas of free and fair trade and regulatory policy.
Helen Medina, CEO of the WSA, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Kentucky Distillers’ Association to the World Spirits Alliance. The spirits industry is a global powerhouse, contributing an impressive $730 billion to global GDP in 2022 and supporting 36 million jobs worldwide.
“Industry-wide collaboration is essential and the KDA is such an important voice delivering historic achievements and sustained success. Together, we can make remarkable progress in driving sustainable growth, responsible practices and a unified vision for the future of the spirits industry.”
The KDA also offers its resources to members, said KDA President Eric Gregory. From record-breaking economic growth to tourism programs to member collaboration and networking, Kentucky Bourbon has expanded its presence and is helping leading spirits producers from around the world learn from its success.
“With a bourbon economy that is stronger than ever, Kentucky Bourbon is a leading force respected around the world,” said Gregory. “As bourbon becomes more prominent every day, a seat at the world table offers our industry the opportunity to maximize our influence tenfold.
“As the global voice of bourbon, we regularly consult with other industry leaders who view our tourism, innovation and economic growth as a measure of success. We are excited to continue to do so while learning from others who are pioneers in their industry.
“The WSA is a powerful network and we are honored to be a part of it.”
For more information about the WSA, visit worldspiritsalliance.com.
Jessica Pendergrass, chair of the KDA Board of Directors and general counsel and chief compliance officer at Heaven Hill, said she is proud to see Kentucky Bourbon cement its place in the global spirits industry.
“As the world’s leading representative of Kentucky Bourbon, the KDA is excited to have a seat at the table with our fellow spirits industry members as a member of the World Spirits Alliance,” she said. “By collaborating and partnering with other associations, the KDA is proud to share the history and heritage of Kentucky Bourbon and build on our shared success as we work together to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Kentucky Distillers Association
