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MEDIA KIT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Helpful Details
• Map of Property
• Communications Team Contacts
• Social Media Handles
• Media Suite Information
II. Schedule of Events
III. Events of Note
• Special Events
• Competitions
• Award Ceremonies
IV. #WSWA74 Style Guide
V. Press Releases
VI. Speaker Bios
VII. Award Recipient Bios
MilanI
MilanII
MilanIII
AlmeriaII
AlmeriaI
CitrusRoom
CitrusB
CitrusA
Citr
onR
esta
uran
t
Prim
o G
arde
nAlmeriaIII
Elevator Banks
FamilyBathroom
Stairs to Lobby
Ritz-Carlton ProductDistribution Center
TuscanyBallroom
The Ritz-CarltonBallroom
The
Plaz
a B
allro
om
Palazzo BallroomExhibit Hall
MediterraneanBallroom
Exhibit Hall
CoquinaBallroom
E
D
C
Plaza III
Plaza IISalon
VISalon
IVSalon
IIISalon
II
SalonV
SalonI
Plaza I
B A
Pref
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Pref
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ence
Cen
ter
Port
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e
Entr
ance
from
Hot
el L
obby
Pref
unct
ion
Prefunction
Da Vinci Terrace & Lawn
To Spa
Valencia &Valencia Terrace
Prefunction PrefunctionPrefunction Prefunction
Pref
unct
ion
WSWA CONVENTION & EXPOSITIONREGISTRATION DESK
Breezeway
Breezeway
Rotunda
CY
BE
R C
AF
É
EX
HIB
IT H
AL
L E
NT
RA
NC
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EXHIBIT HALL ENTRANCE
Med
iterr
anea
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Coch
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Pref
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Pref
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Prefunction
Escalators Up/Dowm
Escalators Up/Dowm
Meeting PlannerO�ce
BusinessCenter
Entra
nce
from
Hote
l Lob
by
Prefunction
AdelphiaAmalfi
IAmalfi
II
GenoaIII
GenoaII
GenoaI
CapriNapoli
INapoli
IISiena
ISiena
II
VeronaII
VeronaI
Segura 4
Segura 3
Segura 6 Marbella 4
Marbella 3
Marbella 2
Marbella 1
Cordova 6
Cordova 5
Cordova4
Cordova 3
Dorada
Brava
Cataluna1
Cataluna2
Palma
Petra
Sevilla
JW MarriottProduct
DistributionCenter
Cordova 2
Cordova 1
MilagroBoardroom
Barcelona
Segura 5
Del
Lag
o4
Del
Lag
o3
Del
Lag
o2
Del
Lag
o1
Am
aran
te3
Am
aran
te2
Am
aran
te1
Segura 2
Segura 1
Trieste
VittoriaThe
Board-room
TuscanyTerrace
Flor
ence
ServiceElevator
Pisa
ServiceElevator
ConferenceElevator
CitrusGarden
The Ritz-CarltonLower Level
Additional JW MarriottLower Level Spaces
JW MarriottLower Level
The Ritz-CarltonLobby Level
CONFERENCE CENTER
JW MarriottLobby Level
THE RITZ-CARLTON JW MARRIOTT
These spaces are perfect for privatelower level hospitality suites.
Please use the Ritz-Carlton South Tower elevators for access to the Ritz-Carlton Product Distribution Center. Located on Ground Level across from Highball & Harvest Restaurant.
TUSCANY D-EU.S. Beverage Alcohol ForumBrand Battle
COQUINA BALLROOMGeneral Sessions
Opening Night ReceptionTaste of the Industry
MEDITERRANEAN BALLROOMEXHIBIT HALL
Tastings and Competitions
PALAZZO BALLROOMEXHIBIT HALL
WSWA TV Studio
WLC Reception(Invitation Only)
RITZ-CARLTON PRODUCTDISTRIBUTION CENTER
The Almeria Rooms are located on ground level across from Citron Restaurant.
Product Display Cases
Tasting CompetitionWinners Case
JW MARRIOTT PRODUCTDISTRIBUTION CENTER
TUSCANY DJoint WSWA & President'sForum MeetingJägermeister Event
THE RITZ-CARLTON BALLROOM SALON IIIWSWA Board of Directors Meeting
M. Shanken Hot Brand AwardsWSWA Government AffairsPACState Law DatabaseMember Services
FREEMANSERVICE DESK
COMMUNICATIONS TEAM CONTACTSJeff SolsbyVice President Communications & [email protected](949) 933-5030
Meg TaylorSenior Manager Communications & [email protected](260) 241-4179
Emily MagramCoordinator Communications & [email protected](202) 738-2927
Lisa KoenigConsultant Communications & [email protected](301) 346-0674
Rosalind NapoliPublic Relations [email protected] 310-339-4115
SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES• For all posts, please hashtag: #WSWA74
• Follow and tag our social media accounts:
o Twitter: @wswaconvention
o Facebook: WSWA Convention
o Instagram: @wswaconvention
MEDIA RECEPTIONPlease join us for a Media Reception Tuesday, April 18, 2017 6:00-7:00 pmThe Ritz-CarltonThe Heron Room
MEDIA SUITEMedia office for your use will be available Monday, April 17th - Friday, April 21st 8 am- 8 pmPalma Room
CONVENTION APPMake sure to download the App and vote for the Hot New Now Award in the press section of the WSWA Convention App. Password: Press2017
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
1
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
TUESDAY, APRIL 18
8:00 am - 10:00 am WSWA STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING Boardroom (Closed) The Ritz-Carlton
8:00 am - 6:00 pm LOWER LEVEL AND TRADITIONAL JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton HOSPITALITY SUITE SET-UP
8:30 am - 6:00 pm REGISTRATION OPEN Palazzo Ballroom Foyer JW Marriott
10:00 am - 6:00 pm EXHIBIT HALLS SET-UP Palazzo Ballroom and Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Halls JW Marriott
10:00 am - 11:30 am WSWA FINANCE & AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING Amalfi I & II (Closed) The Ritz-Carlton
11:45 am - 1:15 pm JOINT WSWA & PRESIDENTS’ FORUM MEETING Tuscany D WITH LUNCH (Closed) The Ritz-Carlton
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm WSWA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Salon III (Members Only) The Ritz-Carlton
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING EXECUTIVE SESSION The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Salon I (Executive Committee Officers Only) The Ritz-Carlton
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm WSWA WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL RECEPTION Tuscany Terrace (Invitation only) The Ritz-Carlton
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm MEDIA RECEPTION Heron Room The Ritz-Carlton
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
2
TUESDAY, APRIL 18 (Continued)
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm BEVERAGE INFORMATION GROUP Highball & Harvest GROWTH BRANDS AWARDS RECEPTION The Ritz-Carlton AND BEVERAGE WHOLESALER DEBUT
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19
7:00 am - 7:00 pm REGISTRATION OPEN Palazzo Ballroom Foyer JW Marriott
8:30 am - 10:00 am OPENING GENERAL SESSION Coquina Ballroom SPONSOREDBYTHEDISTILLEDSPIRITSCOUNCIL JW Marriott
WELCOME
CraigWolf President and CEO WSWA
SPEAKER
CarmineMartignetti Martignetti Companies WSWA Chairman
PRESENTATION OF THE SIDNEY FRANK INNOVATION AWARD
INTRODUCTION OF THE SIDNEY FRANK INNOVATION AWARD
JeffPopkin CEO Mast-Jägermeister US
SIDNEY FRANK INNOVATION AWARD RECEPIENT
GerryRuvo Chairman Campari America
KEYNOTE INTRODUCTION BY
KraigNaasz President and CEO Distilled Spirits Council
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ChrisWallace TV anchor, political commentator and host of Fox News Sunday
10:15 am - 10:30 am RIBBON CUTTING AND EXHIBIT HALLS Palazzo Ballroom Foyer GRAND OPENING JW Marriott
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
3
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19 (Continued)
10:30 am - 5:00 pm EXHIBIT HALLS OPEN Palazzo Ballroom and Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Halls JW Marriott
10:30 am - 5:00 pm WINE & SPIRITS TASTING COMPETITION Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Hall SPONSOREDBYTHE TASTING PANELMAGAZINEANDTHE SOMM JOURNAL JW Marriott
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm LOWER LEVEL AND TRADITIONAL JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton HOSPITALITY SUITES OPEN
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm SHANKEN COMMUNICATIONS HOT BRAND AWARDS The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Salon III The Ritz-Carlton
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION Coquina Ballroom SPONSOREDBYTHEPRESIDENTS’FORUMOFTHEDISTILLEDSPIRITSINDUSTRY JW Marriott
9:00 pm - 1:00 am DEUTSCH AFTER DARKE Tuscany Ballroom The Ritz-Carlton Wholesalers, media and invited guests are welcomed to join
Jägermeister as they relaunch their brand to historic new heights with the unveiling of ‘Deutsch after Darke’; the new brand aesthetic that captures their soul. It’s good to be the Meister.
THURSDAY, APRIL 20
7:30 am - 8:45 am NON-MEMBER WHOLESALER BREAKFAST Heron Room (Invitation only) The Ritz-Carlton
8:00 am - 6:30 pm REGISTRATION OPEN Palazzo Ballroom Foyer JW Marriott
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
4
THURSDAY, APRIL 20 (Continued)
9:00 am - 5:00 pm LOWER LEVEL AND TRADITIONAL JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton HOSPITALITY SUITES OPEN
10:00 am - 12:00 pm CALL FOR COCKTAILS MIXOLOGY COMPETITION Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Hall SPONSOREDBYTHE TASTING PANELMAGAZINE&THECLEVERROOT JW Marriott
10:00 am - 4:30 pm EXHIBIT HALLS OPEN Palazzo Ballroom and Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Halls JW Marriott
11:00 am - 12:00 pm THE CHANGING ROLE OF SALES IN A Del Lago 3 & 4 CONNECTED WORLD JW Marriott SPONSOREDBYDIMENSIONALINSIGHT
SPEAKER
SusanAdkins Diver Administrator at Lipman Brothers
Learn how Lipman Brothers empowered management and sales to succeed with new technology. Susan Adkins, Diver Administrator at Lipman Brothers, will show you how they know where they are with programs and payouts.
Need to know where you are on a program or what numbers you have not achieved? Stuck on a plane or in an area without connectivity? See how you can get what you need when and how you need it on the device you like to use.
Join Dimensional Insight to learn about the changing role of sales in a connected world.
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Salon III (Invitation Only) The Ritz-Carlton
1:30 pm - 4:00 pm WHOLESALER IRON MIXOLOGIST COMPETITION Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Hall SPONSOREDBYTHE TASTING PANELMAGAZINE&THECLEVERROOT JW Marriott
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
5
THURSDAY, APRIL 20 (Continued)
4:30 pm - 9:00 pm EXHIBIT HALLS TEAR-DOWN Palazzo Ballroom and Mediterranean Ballroom Exhibit Halls JW Marriott
5:30 pm - 6:15 pm TASTE OF THE INDUSTRY SET-UP Coquina Ballroom JW Marriott
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm TASTE OF THE INDUSTRY Coquina Ballroom JW Marriott
8:30 pm - 10:30 pm ADVISORY COUNCIL DINNER (Invitation Only)
FRIDAY, APRIL 21
8:00 am - 4:00 pm REGISTRATION OPEN Palazzo Ballroom Foyer JW Marriott
9:00 am - 11:00 am GENERAL BUSINESS SESSION Coquina Ballroom SPONSOREDBYDISTILLEDSPIRITSCOUNCIL JW Marriott
SPEAKER:
CraigWolf President and CEO WSWA
PRESENTATION OF THE LIFETIME LEADERSHIP AWARD
LIFETIME LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
AlanDreeben Partner Republic National Distributing Company
KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
MickEbeling CEO of Not Impossible Labs Two-Time SXSW Innovation Award Winner Author, Not Impossible: The Art and Joy of Doing What Couldn’t Be Done
11:00 am - 5:00 pm LOWER LEVEL AND TRADITIONAL JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton HOSPITALITY SUITES OPEN
Updated 3.20.17 (subject to change)
6
11:30 am - 3:30 pm U.S. BEVERAGE ALCOHOL FORUM Tuscany D-E AND BRAND BATTLE The Ritz-Carlton
11:30 am - 12:30 pm TRENDS FROM BUZZY BARS TO BIG DATA
Learn how consumers’ changing alcohol palates are evolving when we bring you the most up-to-date trends in the industry. Be on top of what people are buying in the U.S., both on- and off-premise. And hear what’s buzzworthy in inventive bars and restaurants that are driving consumers’ tastes.
12:30 pm - 12:45 pm BREAK, LIGHT LUNCH WILL BE SERVED
12:45 pm - 2:30 pm BRAND BATTLE
Brand Battle is the most exciting live presentation to hit the industry in years. We’re looking for people to pitch their brand’s compelling story, and business and marketing plan live to a panel of wholesaler decision makers and industry influencers. Our experts will provide you with candid feedback on your product and approach.
Your presentation could lead to potential distribution opportunities.* And if you’re a winner, your brand information will be shared on the WSWA convention website, mobile app, social media channels and in official press releases. Up to six entries will be selected to present.
*Distribution is not guaranteed. No deals will be offered during Brand Battle.
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm TECHNOLOGY TO HELP BEAT THE COMPETITION
You don’t need a big budget to improve the way you do business. We’ll not only show you what tools are available now to get your brands noticed, but we’ll also share how these novel options can maximize your spend.
EVENTS OF NOTEI. Opening Night Reception
Wednesday, April 196:00 pm-8:00 pmCoquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
The Opening Night Reception will be hosted by “The Presidents’ Forum of the Distilled Spirits Industry.” (“The Presidents’ Forum” is appropriate on second reference.) This two-hour reception is one of the primary social events of the convention. This reception is historically attended by nearly 100% of all registered convention participants.
II. Jägermeister - Deutsch After DarkeWednesday, April 199:00 pm- 1:00 amTuscany Ballroom • The Ritz-Carlton
Wholesalers, media and invited guests are welcomed to join Jägermeister as they relaunch their brand to historic new heights with the unveiling of ‘Deutsch after Darke’. Jägermeister’s irreverent spirit and pursuit of perfection creates a new brand world that represents the ideal blend of mastery and craftsmanship.
III. Taste of the IndustryThursday, April 206:30 pm-8:30 pmCoquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
A grand tasting event showcasing 120 different suppliers—this is a sell-out event each year. Attendees showcase wines or spirits and network with potential distributors at this well-attended tasting event.
IV. General Sessions
1. Opening General SessionWednesday, April 198:30 am-10:30 pmCoquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
• Remarks by incoming Chairman Carmine Martignetti
• Keynote speaker Chris Wallace from Fox News
• Presentation of the Sidney Frank Award Innovation Award to Campari AmericaChairman Gerry Ruvo (bio attached). This award is given annually to a person whohas made exceptional industry contributions in addition to noteworthy philanthropyand community service.
2. General Business SessionFriday, April 219:00 am- 11:00 amCoquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
• Remarks from WSWA President and CEO Craig Wolf
• Keynote presentation from Mick Ebeling of Not Impossible Labs • Presentation of the WSWA Lifetime Leadership Award to Alan Dreeben (bio
attached) of Republic National Distributing Company. This award recognizes a wholesaler whose contribution to the association, the beverage industry, and the community defines excellence, inspires loyalty and exemplifies leadership.
The two General Sessions are sponsored by the Distilled Spirits Council (DSC). Please note this organization is no longer “DISCUS” nor is it the “Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.”
V. U.S Beverage Alcohol Forum and Brand Battle Friday, April 21 11:30 am- 3:30 pm Tuscany D-E • The Ritz-Carlton
An opportunity for attendees to connect and learn at educational sessions, along with the thrilling Brand Battle. Broken into three distinct presentations, the USBAF is a compelling and exciting look into the industry.
1. Trends Session: Trends from Buzzy Bar to Big Data 11:30 am -12:30 pm
This is an opportunity for attendees to learn how consumers’ changing alcohol palates are evolving, what are the most up-to-date trends in the industry and what’s buzzworthy in inventive bars and restaurants that are driving consumers’ tastes!
2. Brand Battle 12:45 pm-2:15 pm
Make time to attend Brand Battle, the most exciting live presentation to hit the industry in years. Attendees gain insight that will help better position their products for today’s changing marketplace.
The following seven contestants will compete live onstage in Brand Battle:
• Mezza di Mezzacorona - Prestige Wine Imports
• 6 Degree Tequila - 6 Degree Tequila LLC
• SoCIAL LITE Craft Cocktails - AWARE Beverages of the Americas LLC
• Bedlam Vodka - Graybeard Distillery
• J.J. Corry - The Chapel Gate Irish Whiskey Co.
• Castello de Poggio Moscato - Zonin USA, Inc.
• Shottys The judges for the Brand Battle include:
• Ray Lombard, EVP Supplier Management and Business Development, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits
• Charlie Merinoff, Co-Chairman, Breakthru Beverage Group
• Dina Opici, President, Opici Family Distributing
• Syd Ross, Co-CEO, Great Lakes Wine & Spirits
• Marc Sachs, VP Supplier Business Development, Republic National Distributing Co.
• Bill Rancic, entrepreneur and celebrity judge
3. Technology to Help Beat the Competition 2:25 pm-3:30 pm
This event helps our attendees learn key tactics to improve the way they do business without a big budget. Not only will tools be shared but also how these novel ideas can maximize spend.At U.S. Beverage Alcohol Forum, Friday, April 21, a technology solutions panel will discuss tech trends and the new technology that levels the playing field, allowing smaller suppliers to access, develop, and use data like larger suppliers do.
Moderator:
• Kristen Bareuther, Managing Director, First Beverage Group
Panelists:
• Craig Letton, CEO, MRM (Managed Response Marketing)
• Andre Preoteasa, Founder, Drinks Technology
• Aaron Sherman, Co-Founder and CEO, SevenFifty
• Matt Talbot, CEO and Co-Founder, GoSpotCheck
• Jim Thompson, Co-Founder and Product Evangelist, GreatVines
COMPETITIONS
The WSWA Convention & Exposition competitions are run in partnership with The Tasting Panel magazine and The Somm Journal, prominent industry publications.
The Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition Wednesday, April 19, 2017 10:30 am-5:00 pm Mediterranean Ballroom • JW Marriott
More than 300 different products are entered in the “Wine & Spirits Tasting Competitions”. Judging and judging criteria for the Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition is managed by The Tasting Panel magazine and The Somm Journal, two of the most widely circulated trade publications in the beverage industry, reaching an audience of thousands of key decision-makers every month. Winners of the Competition will be announced on Thursday, April 20 via the WSWA mobile app and will be posted on the Convention website wswaconvention.org. In addition, Best of Show and Double Gold winners will be displayed in the special winner’s case which will be located in the JW Marriott Rotunda. All winners will receive ribbons and placards for display in their booth and/or suite.
The Call for Cocktails Mixology Competition Thursday, April 20, 2017 10:00 am-12:00 pm Mediterranean Ballroom • JW Marriott
The “Call for Cocktails Mixology Competition” provides an opportunity for exhibitors or hospitality suite holders to create an original cocktail and have it judged in a blind tasting by a panel of top mixologists and industry experts selected by The Tasting Panel Magazine and The Clever Root. Winners will receive awards at the WSWA Convention & Exposition, be featured on the WSWA Convention website and mobile app, and in the July issue of The Tasting Panel Magazine. Once accepted into the competition, cocktails will be judged on flavor, use of product, originality and presentation. Tony Abou-Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, serves as Executive Director AND emcee.
The Wholesaler Iron Mixologist Competition Thursday, April 20, 2017 1:30 pm- 4:00 pm Mediterranean Ballroom • JW Marriott
During the Wholesaler Iron Mixologist Competition, cocktails are created using products in the wholesalers’ brand portfolio. Mixologists will be tasked to create an aperitif and a long drink. All drinks will need to include one of the secret ingredients which will be revealed during the competition. Winners will receive the coveted WSWA shaker trophy, be recognized on the WSWA Convention website, wswaconvention.org, on our convention mobile app, and in the July issue of The Tasting Panel magazine. Tony Abou-Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, serves as Executive Director AND emcee.
The following contestants will compete:
• Troy Clarke – Director of Mixology & Spirits Education, Martignetti Companies
• Tripper Duval – Mixologist, Badger Liquor
• Travis Fourmant – Cocktail Ambassador, CSS, Great Lakes Wine & Spirits
• Nick Nistico – Beverage Program Specialist, Breakthru Beverage Florida
• David Ortiz – Mixologist/Spirits Specialist, RNDC
• Max A. Solano – Beverage Program Specialist/Whisky & Spirits Educator, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Nevada
• Casey Wallin – Mixologist, Young’s Market Company
AWARDS
Please Vote! Hot New Now Media AwardWe need your help! All media attendees are eligible to vote for the Hot New Now Media Award. Please go to the Hot New Now section of the convention app, where you’ll be able to vote for any brand launched after April 15, 2016. Help build buzz for a new and noteworthy brand! Winners will be announced during the convention.
The Sidney Frank Innovation Award Wednesday, April 19, 2017 8:30-10 am Coquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
The WSWA Educational Foundation will honor Gerry Ruvo, Chairman of Campari America, with the Sidney Frank Innovation Award presented by Mast-Jägermeister, given annually to a person who has made exceptional industry contributions in addition to noteworthy philanthropy and community service. The award is named for Sidney Frank, a leading innovator and marketer in the beverage industry who also set records for philanthropic contributions and service. This award will be presented during the Opening General Session.
The Lifetime Leadership Award Friday, April 21, 2017 9-11 am Coquina Ballroom • JW Marriott
WSWA will present the Lifetime Leadership Award to Alan Dreeben, a Partner with Republic National Distributing Company. The award is presented each year to a wholesaler whose contribution to the association, beverage industry and community defines excellence, inspires loyalty and exemplifies leadership. The award will be presented during the General Business Session,
STYLE GUIDE
Terms, Phrases, Social Media InformationWhen writing about, reporting on and covering the WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition, please keep in mind the following terms, phrases and proper names/titles:
WSWA
1. Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) is a national trade association representing the wholesale tier of the wine and spirits industry and is the voice for wholesalers in Congress, the administration, the courts, with the news media and in communities across America.
2. Founded in 1943, WSWA has 405 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.
3. In addition to serving as an advocacy organization, WSWA also runs the beverage alcohol industry’s leading B2B event connecting WHOLESALERS and SUPPLIERS.
4. More information is available at www.wswa.org
5. Both WSWA and the Convention & Exposition include the “&”ampersand in their official titles/names.
WSWA Leadership
6. WSWA’s President and CEO (“and” is spelled out) is Craig Wolf. His BIO is included within this packet.
7. WSWA is led by an Executive Committee and its Chairman is incoming slate of officers is elected during association organizational meetings held on the first day of the Convention & Exposition, Tuesday, April 18.
8. Incoming Chairman Carmine Martignetti, President of Taunton, MA-based Martignetti Companies. More information is available at: https://www.martignetti.com/MA.aspx
9. Mr. Martignetti will serve as Chairman from April 2017-April 2018.
10. Doug Epstein, Managing Director, Regional Sales with Horizon Beverage Company in Norton, MA, will serve as Immediate Past Chairman having completed his 2016-2017 term as Chairman.
WSWA Convention & Exposition
11. The event is referred to as “WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition”, it is not “the WSWA” or “WSWA” as those name refer to the trade association.
12. The event is not a “conference” although day three of the “show” includes the U.S. Beverage Alcohol Forum (USBAF) a half-day educational program featuring a variety of informational and interactive discussions and presentations. USBAF is operated and hosted each year by WSWA as a core part of the WSWA Annual Convention & Exposition.
13. The WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition includes 210 exhibit booths spread over two “Exhibit Halls.”
14. The event is held at Grande Lakes Orlando, a joint J.W. Marriott / Ritz-Carlton property.
15. Sleeping rooms and suites in the two hotel towers are often converted to customized meeting and display spaces by brands and suppliers. These 85 rooms are known as “Traditional Hospitality Suites.”
16. Meeting and small ballroom spaces in the hotel meeting/conference spaces are often reserved by brands to accommodate higher traffic meetings and displays. These 50 spaces are known as “Lower Level Hospitality Suites.” Lower Level Hospitality Suites are identified by names; Traditional Hospitality Suites are identified by sleeping room numbers and the corresponding hotel tower (J.W. Marriott / Ritz-Carlton). Note: the full name is “The Ritz-Carlton” and the name is hyphenated.
17. WSWA refers to “product” as “wine,” and “spirts” (not liquor)
18. WSWA maintains the official WSWA Convention App available in the Google Play store and on iTunes.
Industry Terminology
19. “Suppliers” is a general term for companies exhibiting or taking suites; it refers to those who are not wholesalers but that offer a product or service that wholesalers carry in their portfolio or use as part of their sales/operations.
20. “Wholesalers” are the licensed/regulated middle tier of the three-tier system that defines the modern U.S. beverage alcohol industry. Not all wholesalers present at the event are WSWA members—but WSWA does represent over 80 percent of the wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the U.S. Select “non-member wholesalers” participate at the convention as paid attendees or prospective association members.
21. A small number of “service providers” or ancillary product and service companies attend as “Exhibitors” but the majority are manufacturers and suppliers of beverage alcohol products and brands.
22. The Tasting Panel magazine. The word “magazine” is not capitalized in the publication’s title. Likewise, “The” is capitalized in The Somm Journal title/name.
PRESS RELEASES
November, 2016The Right Mix: WSWA’s 74th Annual Convention & ExpositionGrande Lakes Orlando April 18-21, 2017
(WASHINGTON, D.C.)–Wholesalers seeking their next portfolio partner and wine, spirits and industry-related suppliers pursuing U.S. distribution or market expansion will find, “The Right Mix” needed to achieve business success at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) 74th Annual Convention & Exposition coming to Grande Lakes Orlando April 18-21, 2017.
The alcohol beverage industry’s leading event returns to Orlando, with the 2017 theme, “The Right Mix,” to connect wholesalers with suppliers and other industry vendors, and to deliver an opportunity-packed schedule designed to translate time investment into bottom-line benefits.
Back by popular demand is “Brand Battle.” If you have a great brand with a compelling story and a strong business and marketing plan—then Brand Battle is the perfect platform to pitch to a panel of industry decision makers in front of a live audience. Our experts will provide contestants with candid, valuable feedback on brand, presentation and approach. Once accepted into “the Battle,” your presentation could lead to potential distribution opportunities by panelists or others in the audience. Brand Battle is part of the U.S. Beverage Alcohol Forum, a half-day educational program covering global topics as well as practical marketing and development strategies for suppliers and wholesalers.
Two General Sessions, sponsored by the Distilled Spirits Council, will feature top-notch speakers in addition to remarks from the 2017-2018 incoming WSWA Chairman, Carmine Martignetti, President of Martignetti Companies, as well as WSWA President and CEO Craig Wolf. WSWA will present the Lifetime Leadership Award, given each year to a wholesaler who demonstrates business leadership and industry philanthropy. The WSWA Educational Foundation will present the Sidney Frank Award, named for an industry giant who set new standards for innovation, community engagement and philanthropy. This award is given to an industry leader each year in partnership with The Sidney Frank Importing Company.
In recent years, both Exhibit Halls have sold out—and this year’s event will include more space to accommodate supplier demand. Lower Level and Traditional Hospitality Suites will showcase new and longstanding industry suppliers.
Along with two lively exhibit halls, the WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition will feature the always-popular “Wine & Spirits Tasting Competitions,” in partnership with The Tasting Panel Magazine and The SOMM Journal. Last year’s event saw more than 600 entries across wine and spirits categories.
The action will continue at the “Call for Cocktails Mixology Competition” where brands execute original cocktail recipes, selected from pre-submissions, crafted front-and-center on the WSWA competition stage. Cocktails are then judged live by a panel of industry experts selected by The Tasting Panel Magazine and The Clever Root. Also returning is the “Wholesaler Iron Mixologist Competition,” showcasing the most innovative mixologists in the business and their ability to design cocktails incorporating a secret ingredient unveiled at the start of the timed competition. Tony Abou Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, will return as Executive Director and emcee for these on-stage competitions.
The WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition will also feature the popular and stylish Opening Night Reception, sponsored by The Presidents’ Forum of the Distilled Spirits Industry and the popular Taste of the Industry grand tasting that showcases the industry’s latest trends.
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“Last year, the WSWA Annual Convention & Exposition set new records for supplier participation, wholesaler attendance and competition participation. We’re already fielding requests for exhibit space and suite reservations and are on-track to produce another record-breaking event,” WSWA President and CEO Craig Wolf said. “We encourage wholesalers and suppliers to register early because this year’s event will surely feature “The Right Mix” of education, information and bottom-line benefits the industry has come to expect from WSWA,” Wolf added.
To register, view exhibitor information, learn about sponsorship opportunities, and see current program information, please visit the WSWA convention website wswaconvention.org or call the WSWA Convention Hotline at 202-371-5682.
March, 2017WSWA to Honor Alan Dreeben and Gerry Ruvo at 74th Annual Convention & ExpositionAwards to be presented during April 18-21 event at Grande Lakes Orlando
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) — America’s family-owned wine and spirits wholesalers will honor two industry giants as part of the WSWA 74th Annual Convention & Exposition to be held April 18-21 at Grande Lakes Orlando.
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) will present the Lifetime Leadership Award to Alan Dreeben, a Partner with Republic National Distributing Company. The award is presented each year to a wholesaler whose contribution to the association, beverage industry and community defines excellence, inspires loyalty and exemplifies leadership.
The WSWA Educational Foundation will honor Gerry Ruvo, Chairman of Campari America, with the Sidney Frank Innovation Award presented by Mast-Jägermeister, given annually to a person who has made exceptional industry contributions in addition to noteworthy philanthropy and community service. The award is named for Sidney Frank, a leading innovator and marketer in the beverage industry who also set records for philanthropic contributions and service.
“Alan Dreeben and Gerry Ruvo, each have a long history of supporting charities, individuals and community organizations with their time, money and leadership. Awards given by WSWA and the WSWA Educational Foundation highlight their leadership and service to others, inspiring all of us. Alan and Gerry are industry giants, and we are honored to recognize their contributions,” said WSWA President and CEO Craig Wolf.
ABOUT ALAN DREEBEN
Dreeben has served in nearly every leadership role at WSWA, including as the 2014-2015 Chairman, and earlier as Vice Chairman, and PAC Chairman among other duties. He has lent his services to the Past Chairmen’s Council, and Government Affairs and Meetings & Conventions Committees, and is a major donor to the WSWA Educational Foundation.
In addition to his duties at Republic National Distributing Company, Dreeben is actively engaged in a number of business and philanthropic activities. He serves as an Advisory Director at Cullen Frost Bank; a member of the Board of Directors of Camber Energy; a member of the Advisory Board of San Antonio Capital; and on the Executive Committee of the Texas Business Leadership Council.
With a long history of commitment to education at all levels, Dreeben serves as a Foundation Director and past regent and chairman with the Texas State University System, and as a member of the Executive Committee of the University of Texas/Texas System Chancellor’s Council, among other activities. He has endowed two “Forty Acres” Scholarships with the University of Texas
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at Austin McCombs School of Business where he also serves as an MSB Foundation Trustee, a member and past chair of the MSB Advisory Council and a member of the University of Texas Development Board.
Dreeben attended Highland Park High School in Dallas, and later earned a BBA at the University of Texas at Austin and an MBA at Harvard University (Executive Program). He and his wife Barbara reside in San Antonio, are the parents of three daughters, and have nine grandchildren.
ABOUT GERRY RUVO
Gerry Ruvo is a transformational leader in the spirits business with nearly 40 years of experience. Ruvo began his beverage alcohol career at Gallo in upstate New York, followed by senior sales roles with Monsieur Henri, where he helped introduce Stolichnaya Vodka to the U.S. After moving to the Paddington Corporation as Vice President, National Sales, he was named Vice President of Sales for the newly formed International Distillers and Vintners (IDV), the largest spirits company in North America.
In 1998, he joined SKYY Spirits to develop the burgeoning one-brand company before being named CEO after the buyout of the company by Gruppo Campari in 2005. Ruvo helped Campari build a diverse portfolio of unique, owned products, beginning with the acquisition of Cabo Wabo Tequila, Wild Turkey Bourbon, Espolon Tequila, Appelton Rum, and Forty Creek Canadian Whisky. Recognizing the consumer trend towards all-natural, infused products, he is also credited with introducing the popular SKYY infusions line.
Ruvo’s dedication to charitable efforts includes work on behalf of the American Cancer Society and the Sky Ranch Foundation. He has also served as Chairman of the Distilled Spirits Council.
ABOUT WSWA
WSWA is a national trade association representing the wholesale tier of the wine and spirits industry and is the voice for wholesalers in Congress, the administration, the courts, with the news media and in communities across America. Founded in 1943, WSWA has 405 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.
Learn more about the WSWA Convention & Exposition at www.wswaconvention.org and more about the association at www.wswa.org.
SPEAKER BIOS
Craig WolfPresident and CEOWine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
Craig Wolf has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) since 2006. Founded in 1943, WSWA is a national trade association consisting of 372 wine and spirits wholesalers and brokers whose members operate in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
As President of WSWA, Craig serves as the voice of the wholesale wine and spirits industry, advocating for wholesalers’ interests with state and federal elected officials, the media, regulators and the law enforcement community. WSWA supports legislation, regulation and public policy at both the state and federal levels that promotes a consumer-focused, accountable and responsible system for the distribution of beverage alcohol, and which serves to prevent underage access.
As CEO of WSWA, Craig manages the day-to-day operations of one of Washington’s most influential trade associations, with an annual budget of eleven million dollars, a staff of twenty-three, and a two million dollar per cycle Political Action Committee (WSWA-PAC).
Prior to taking over the top spot at the association in 2006, Craig held the position of WSWA’s General Counsel for just under seven years. Before joining WSWA, Craig served as Counsel to the United States Senate Judiciary Committee, as a Trial Attorney in the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice and for five years worked as an Assistant State’s Attorney for Allegany County, Maryland.
Craig received his law degree in 1987 from the University of Baltimore School of Law and his bachelor’s degree in 1984 from Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and graduate of the Institute for Organization Management (IOM).
Craig is a Major in the United States Army Reserve and is currently assigned as the Chief of Administrative and Operational Law at the 200th Military Police Command. He is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan). He lives in Howard County, Maryland with his wife, Sally. Their children, Hannah and Zachary, are both in college.
Carmine A. MartignettiPresident and Co-OwnerMartignetti Companies
Carmine Martignetti is President and Co-Owner of Martignetti Companies, the leading distributor of wines and spirits in New England. Carmine is a Trustee and Vice Chair of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, a member of the Board of Trustees at Boston College, and Chair of the Board at Tabor Academy in Marion, MA. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of Wine and
Spirits Wholesalers of America. Carmine has been active in many organizations including The Park School in Brookline, MA and Brooks School in North Andover, MA where he has
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served as a Trustee. Carmine is a 1976 graduate of Boston College. He and his wife, Beth, have three children and live in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
Other Organizations:Carmine is a benefactor of: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and The Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Chris WallaceAward-Winning Veteran Journalist & Host of FOX News Sunday
Chris Wallace is the anchor of Fox News Sunday (FNS), Fox Broadcasting Company’s Sunday morning public affairs program. He also plays a major role in Fox News Channel’s America’s Election HQ coverage and is based in Washington, D.C.
Each Sunday, Wallace interviews that week’s top newsmakers—including the top Presidential candidates, senior officials in the Obama Administration, Congressional and world leaders. This summer, he was a moderator of the Fox News Republican Presidential debate, that drew an audience of 24 million viewers. In 2016, he will report from both national conventions—and will be an anchor in Fox News’s Election Night coverage.
Over his career, Wallace has won every major broadcast news award for his reporting, including three Emmy Awards, the Dupont-Columbia Silver Baton, the Peabody Award, and the Sol Taishoff Award for Broadcast Journalism from the National Press Foundation. Most recently, he won the Chris Wallace Bio Continued:
Paul White Award for lifetime achievement from the Radio Television Digital News Association. Wallace has been described as an “equal opportunity inquisitor” by The Boston Globe, and “an aggressive journalist,” “sharp edged” and “solid” by The Washington Post.
Before joining Fox News, Wallace worked at ABC News for 14 years where he served as the Chief Correspondent for Primetime Thursday and as a substitute host for Nightline. During his tenure with ABC News, Wallace hosted multiple groundbreaking investigations and received numerous awards for his work.
Prior to joining ABC News, Wallace was with NBC News where he served as the chief White House correspondent from 1982-1989. While at NBC, he covered the 1980, 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns as well as the Democratic and Republican conventions in those years. Wallace anchored Meet the Press from 1987-1988, making him the only person to have hosted two Sunday talk shows. He also anchored the Sunday edition of NBC Nightly News from 1982-1984 and 1986-1987. Wallace joined NBC as a reporter with WNBC-TV in New York City in 1975.
Mick EbelingCEO of Not Impossible Labs, Two-Time SXSW Innovation Award Winner and Author, Not Impossible: The Art and Joy of Doing What Couldn’t Be Done
“Do not accept ‘no’ for an answer – especially from yourself. Setbacks are ramps, not road bumps.”
A recipient of the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award, a two-time South by Southwest Innovation Award Winner, one of Wired magazine’s
“Agents of Change,” and listed as one of the most influential creative people by The Creativity 50’s, Mick Ebeling is a film, television, and commercial producer, philanthropist, technology trailblazer, author, entrepreneur, and public speaker who has won every major creative and advertising award. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs and philanthropists, he is the CEO of Not Impossible Labs, a multiple-award-winning social innovation lab and production company whose mission is to develop creative solutions to real-world problems. Named one of Ad Age’s “Top 50 Most Creative People,” Ebeling’s mantra of “Commit, then figure it out” allows him to convene, connect, and empowers a team of thinkers, dreamers, hackers, and doers to change the world. Working with a wide variety of Fortune 500 companies, Ebeling shares the important message of creating “Technology for the Sake of Humanity,” and encourages others to do the same.
Ebeling’s unconventional approach to problem solving brought to life highly acclaimed initiatives: the EyeWriter, Project Daniel, Don’s Voice, and most recently, Music Not Impossible. These inventions have found solutions to previously unworkable problems including bringing the ability to draw back to a paraplegic street artist, 3D-printed arms to Sudanese amputees, and a ‘voice’ to an ALS patient who had not spoken to his wife in over 15 years. Since its creation, the EyeWriter achieved noteworthy press and appearances including TIME magazine’s “Top 50 Inventions of 2010,” as well as being honored at Ad Age and Creativity’s 2010 “The Idea Conference.” The device is now part of the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Project Daniel, the subject of Intel’s “Look Inside” campaign, enabled Ebeling to fly to Sudan to 3D print prosthetic limbs and fit them for children of the war-torn region. He then left the equipment behind with trained locals to continue his work, creating the world’s first 3D-printing prosthetic lab and training facility. Arms are printed within hours and cost $100. TIME magazine said, “It’s hard to imagine any other device doing more to make the world a better place.” Project Daniel and Don’s Voice were consecutive recipients of the SXSW Interactive Innovation Award in 2015 and 2016, in addition to receiving many other accolades.
Ebeling’s book, Not Impossible: The Art and Joy of Doing What Couldn’t Be Done, recounts the life experiences that led to the founding of Not Impossible. Praised by Jillian Michaels as “a road map to changing your life by changing the lives of others,” and hailed by Deepak Chopra as “the template for a new science of consciousness,” the book is now in its fifth printing and has been translated into multiple languages.
AWARD RECIPIENT BIOS:
Gerard RuvoChairman, Campari AmericaSidney Frank Innovation Award Recipient
Gerard (Gerry) Ruvo is the Chairman of Campari America. With nearly 40 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry, Ruvo is an enthusiastic and well-respected industry stalwart and champion. He assumed the role of Chairman in 2014, shifting from his previous role as Chairman and CEO of Gruppo Campari’s US business.
Ruvo is viewed as a transformational leader in the spirits business. In 1998, he was brought on board at then Skyy Spirits to develop the burgeoning one-brand company. In 2005, he was named CEO after the buyout of the company by Gruppo Campari. From there, Ruvo and Campari set out to transform the business from an entity primarily reliant on one major brand, SKYY Vodka, and third-party agency brands, to a company that could control its own destiny through a diverse portfolio of unique, owned products. The acquisition of Cabo Wabo Tequila, Wild Turkey Bourbon, Espolon Tequila, Appleton Rum, and Forty Creek Canadian Whisky followed Ruvo’s appointment in relatively quick succession. Recognizing the consumer trend towards all-natural, infused products, he is also credited with scrapping SKYY Vodka’s successful SKYY Flavors line and introducing the popular SKYY Infusions line.
Before joining Campari America, Ruvo worked for the Paddington Corporation as Vice President, National Sales. After the merger of the Paddington, Heublein and Carillon, Ruvo was named Vice President of Sales for the newly formed International Distillers and Vintners (IDV), the largest spirits company in North America. Prior to that, Ruvo held several senior sales roles with Monsieur Henri, a division of PepsiCo Inc., introducing Stolichnaya Vodka to the US. He began his beverage alcohol experience at Gallo in Upstate New York. Gerry was also formerly the Chairman of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
Ruvo is heavily involved in the community. His charitable work includes the American Cancer Society and the Sky Ranch Foundation. He has been honored multiple times for his contributions to these charitable organizations.
A native New Yorker, Ruvo graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Alan DreebenRepublic National Distributing Company2017 WSWA Lifetime Leadership Award Recipient
Alan Dreeben is a partner and member of the Board of Directors of Republic National Distributing Company in San Antonio, the nation’s second largest distributor of premium wine and spirits with operations in 23 states.
In addition to his duties at Republic National Distributing Company, Dreeben is actively engaged in a number of business and philanthropic activities.
He serves as an Advisory Director at Cullen Frost Bank; a member of the Board of Directors of Camber Energy (NYSE); a member of the Advisory Board of San Antonio Capital; on the Executive Committee of the Texas Business Leadership Council.
With a long history of commitment to education at all levels Dreeben serves as a Foundation Director and past regent and chairman with the Texas State University System; and member of the Executive Committee of the University of Texas/Texas System Chancellor’s Council, among other activities.
Dreeben has endowed two “Forty Acres” Scholarships with the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business where he also serves as a MSB Foundation Trustee; member and past chair of the MSB Advisory Council; and a member of the University of Texas Development Board.
He is also a major donor to the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Educational Foundation, and is the 2014-2015 Past Chairman of WSWA.
He attended Highland Park High School in Dallas, Texas, and later earned a BBA at the University of Texas at Austin and an MBA at Harvard University (Executive Program). Alan and his wife Barbara reside in San Antonio.
