WSA welcomed its members to Geneva for its Annual Meeting, in the summer of 2024, with the event being held at the President Wilson Hotel. The event brought together industry leaders, trade associations, and representatives from the diplomatic corps for insightful discussions on the future of the global spirits sector. This year’s meeting focused on addressing key challenges and identifying shared solutions for the industry. From evolving trade dynamics to sustainability goals, discussions were marked by a collaborative spirit and forward-thinking mindset.
Growing the WSA Network
The WSA had the pleasure to announce the expansion of the WSA network with the addition of three esteemed members:
- Mast-Jägermeister SE
- Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA)
- The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA)
Their addition strengthens our community, bringing new perspectives, and amplifies our collective voice within the spirits industry.
Annual Meeting Highlights
- Keynote by WTO Deputy Director-General Johanna Hill: Her insights on global trade dynamics and the were invaluable to our discussions.
- Annual Cocktail Reception: The event gathered WSA CEOs, member representatives, diplomats, ambassadors, and key figures from international Geneva. This event was a great opportunity to exchange and engage with key stakeholders in Geneva.
- Engagement with WTO Missions: WSA members visited WTO missions, the dialogue between and collaboration on shared priorities. These interactions were pivotal in addressing both opportunities and challenges in the spirits sector.
- Launch of WSA’s Global Economic Footprint Study: The WSA launched its first-ever comprehensive global Spirits Economic Footprint Study, showcasing the spirits industry as a vital contributor to the global economy. The study revealed that the sector contributes an impressive US$730 billion in gross value added to the world’s GDP and that it supports 36 million jobs worldwide.
