Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America

Today, we join the industry in honoring the life and legacy of Bennett Glazer — a visionary leader whose impact on the beverage alcohol industry will be felt for generations.

As Executive Vice Chairman and a driving force behind Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, Bennett helped build one of the most influential distribution companies in North America. His leadership, rooted in integrity, innovation, and long-term partnership, set a standard not just for success—but for how to lead with purpose.

Through decades of transformation in our industry, he remained committed to people, relationships, and the values that define the three-tier system. His influence extended far beyond business performance—shaping culture, mentoring future leaders, and strengthening the entire industry.

We are grateful for his contributions, his vision, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Our thoughts are with the Glazer family and all those across the industry who had the privilege of working alongside him.

https://www.wswa.org/news/wswa-statement-honoring-legacy-bennett-glazer-chairman-board-and-ceo-glazers-inc

WSWA Statement Honoring the Legacy of Bennett Glazer, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Glazer’s, Inc Apr 21, 2026 Washington, D.C. WASHINGTON, D.C., 4/21/2026 – Today the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) remembers the remarkable legacy of Bennett Glazer, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Glazer’s, Inc., and Executive Vice Chairman of Southern Glazer’s. A third-generation leader of ...

What keeps the alcohol marketplace safe, competitive, and accountable? A system designed to do exactly that. The three-tier system isn’t outdated—it’s essential!

During Alcohol Awareness Month, it’s a reminder that strong safeguards support responsible sales and distribution.

Read the latest blog post from Francis Creighton: https://www.wswa.org/news/strong-safeguards-matter-thats-why-we-need-three-tier-system

We are pleased to announce Dina Opici, President of Opici Family Distributing and immediate past Chair of WSWA, as the recipient of the 2026 Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) Icon Award. 🎉🏆

“Dina is the very definition of an icon. She leads with courage and generosity, consistently using her platform to lift up others. Her influence can be seen not just in her company and in WSWA, but also in the countless women she has mentored and inspired across the industry.” — Catherine McDaniel, Senior Vice President of Member Advocacy for WSWA and Director of WLC.

The WLC Icon Award is presented to an industry figure whose leadership, influence and commitment have made a meaningful and enduring impact on women within the wine and spirits wholesale tier. The award recognizes a true icon — someone who embodies WLC’s core pillars of Educate, Elevate and Empower, and whose actions have helped open doors and strengthen the industry for future generations. Dina's career exemplifies those values.

Congratulations, Dina! 🍾👏

https://www.wswa.org/news/wswa-honors-dina-opici-wlc-icon-award

We are pleased to announce Charles “Charlie” Merinoff, Co-Chairman and principal founder of Breakthru Beverage Group, will receive the 2026 Lifetime Leadership Award at Access LIVE 2026! 🎉🏆

The WSWA Lifetime Leadership Award recognizes industry professionals whose careers have made significant and lasting contributions to the wine and spirits wholesale tier, strengthened the three-tier system, and exemplified leadership and service to their communities throughout a lifetime.

“Charlie is the embodiment of visionary leadership and commitment to this industry. His role in shaping the modern wholesale landscape, combined with his unwavering support for WSWA’s mission and his philanthropic efforts, sets a standard for excellence that has inspired generations of leaders across the beverage alcohol business.” — Francis Creighton, WSWA president and CEO

Congratulations, Charlie! 🍾👏

https://www.wswa.org/news/wswa-announces-charles-charlie-merinoff-2026-lifetime-leadership-award-recipient

We are pleased to announce the appointment of three key federal affairs leaders: Ben Castagnetti, Scott Luginbill, and Kelsey Snyder.

Together, with Dawson Hobbs, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs, they will further strengthen WSWA’s advocacy presence in Washington, D.C.

In their respective roles, Ben, Scott and Kelsey will play central roles in advancing WSWA’s legislative priorities, engaging with policymakers, and shaping federal public policy that supports the three-tier system and prioritizes American, family-owned businesses.

We are thrilled to have Ben, Scott and Kelsey on the WSWA team! 🍾👏

Read more: https://www.wswa.org/news/wine-spirits-wholesalers-america-announces-three-additions-federal-affairs-team

Today marks 92 years since the 21st Amendment ended Prohibition and restored a legal, safe, and responsible alcohol marketplace in America. 🍷🥃🍸

WSWA continues to champion a system that protects consumers, supports local economies, and fosters choice and innovation!

Cheers to 92 years of progress, and to a future built on responsibility. 🥂✨

We are pleased to announce that Christy Moran has joined the association as Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing!

Christy, a D.C.-based communications strategist with more than 20 years of experience, will oversee WSWA’s strategic communications, media relations, digital engagement, brand and reputation initiatives, and marketing efforts that support member engagement and industry advocacy.

We are thrilled to have Christy on the team! 🍾👏

Read more: https://www.wswa.org/news/wine-spirits-wholesalers-america-names-christy-moran-senior-vice-president-communications-and

WSWA President & CEO Francis Creighton recently sat down with Krystina Skibo of Beverage Wholesaler to talk about how WSWA is fighting for wholesalers and the entire beverage alcohol industry. They discussed:

✅ The importance of protecting the three-tier system that promotes innovation, public-health safety and tax compliance.

👎 Challenging unfair tariffs that burden wholesalers and limit consumer choice.

🤝 Aligning for tomorrow by focusing on member resources, data insights through SipSource, and WSWA’s flagship event Access LIVE.

Read the full article here: https://bevinfogroup.com/2025/11/21/wswa-fights-for-wholesalers-and-the-broader-industry/

WSWA Fights for Wholesalers and the Broader Industry | Beverage Information Group Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America recently appointed Cutter Smith, president of Eder Bros., Inc., as the association’s new Chairman. We spoke with Francis Creighton, WSWA president and CEO, about Smith’s appointment and his future goals for the association.

"Tariffs are a multilayered issue. The most direct one people think of is the tariffs placed on imported wine. But there are hidden aspects too, tariffs on glass, aluminum cans, labels, even glue that holds boxes together. These universal tariffs affect the entire production process and supply chain." - Dawson Hobbs, WSWA's Executive Vice President of Government Affairs

https://www.foxnews.com/us/tariffs-push-us-wine-industry-uncertain-territory-really-creates-challenge

Tariffs push US wine industry into uncertain territory: 'Really creates a challenge' Wholesalers in the wine industry warn that prices could be rising soon. Tariffs have impacted both importers of foreign wines and wineries at home dealing with higher operating costs.

This Veterans Day, we pause to express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in our Armed Forces. Thank you for your service and sacrifice 🇺🇸