2024's Can't-Miss Beverage Trade Shows for Up-and-Coming Alcohol Brands
To start, yes we know that some have already passed, but make sure to save the date for next year! Check out the best trade shows and conferences every craft spirits brand should be attending in 2024:
#1: VINExpo, AMerica
Vinexpo America is set to be a highlight among 2024's beverage trade shows, taking place on June 24-25 at the Javits Center in New York, showcasing an exceptional array of products from the alcohol world. As one of the key events for up-and-coming alcohol brands, it offers unparalleled opportunities for discovering new products, connecting with industry players, and conducting crucial business. The 2023 expansion to include spirits has only broadened its appeal, attracting 306 exhibitors from 32 producing countries and representing 34 countries, indicating its significance among alcohol trade shows and beverage expos[1].
With an impressive lineup of exhibitors like Univers Drink and Endless West Drinks from the United States, Quintas de Melgaço from Portugal, and Les Crus Bourgeois du Médoc from France, Vinexpo America is a can't-miss for anyone looking to stay ahead in the food and beverage industry. Its offering of 26 academy sessions further cements its place as a premier educational hub for the latest trends and innovations in the alcohol and beverage sector, making it an essential destination for anyone keen on exploring the best alcohol trade shows[1].
#2: ADI: Craft Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo
Event Details and Schedule
Location and Date: The 2024 ADI Craft Spirits Conference & Vendor Expo is set to take place at the Baltimore Convention Center and Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, Maryland. The main event is scheduled for August 27-28, with additional workshops and tours on August 26 and August 29 [2].
Keynote Speaker: The opening keynote address will be delivered by the renowned Lisa Wicker on the first day of the conference, setting a motivational tone for the event [2].
Registration Information: Prospective attendees can begin registering in April, and those interested in exhibiting can make booth sales inquiries at sales@distilling.com [2].
Accommodations and Special Events
Hotel Headquarters: The Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor serves as the designated hotel headquarters. Attendees can access preferred rates through a link provided on the ADI website [2].
Whiskey and Gin Summits: Specialized summits are scheduled around the main event, with the Whiskey Summit on August 26 and a Gin Summit on August 29, offering focused sessions for enthusiasts and professionals [3].
Educational Opportunities and Networking
Sessions and Exhibitions: Over 70 educational and informational sessions will be available, alongside a vibrant trade show floor, providing ample learning and networking opportunities [3].
Pricing and Early Bird Special: A full conference pass is priced at $400 for ADI members and $600 for non-members. An early bird discount is available for those registering before May 15 [3] [4].
Community and Innovation
Open to All: The event welcomes both seasoned professionals and newcomers in the craft distilling community, fostering an environment of growth and learning [4].
Industry Networking: Attendees will have the unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and discover innovations in the field of craft distilling [4].
#3: ACSA's 11th Annual Distillers' Convention and Vendor Trade Show
Event Overview
The 11th Annual Distillers' Convention and Vendor Trade Show, organized by the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA), is set to take place from February 26 to February 28, 2024, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado [5][8]. This event is a pivotal gathering designed to support the craft spirits industry by connecting distillers with suppliers and providing a platform for education and networking [5].
Membership and Educational Opportunities
ACSA offers various membership categories such as Voting Members, Candidate Members, Affiliate Members, and Advocate Members, each with unique benefits like access to webinars, e-books, research, and regional programs [6]. The convention itself serves as a hub for professional education encompassing webinars, safety programs, and sessions on a wide range of topics from business strategies to distillery operations [6][7].
Sessions and Awards
The convention will feature diverse sessions covering topics like News, ACSA Affairs, Distillery Openings, and more. Notably, it includes categories such as Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, and Rum among others [7]. Additionally, the ACSA conducts an annual judging of craft spirits and hosts the American Craft Spirits Awards, highlighting excellence within the industry [6].
Networking and Industry Support
The event theme, "MOVING MOUNTAINS TO HELP YOU SUCCEED," emphasizes its goal to address specific business issues and complex challenges facing the craft spirits community. It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from industry leaders and to network with equipment and ingredient purveyors, label designers, packaging experts, and more [8].
Tailored for Industry Professionals
The convention is specifically designed for individuals involved in all aspects of the craft spirits industry, from distillers and owners to marketing teams and sales personnel. It aims to foster an environment of growth and learning, making it an essential event for those invested in the future of craft spirits [8].
#4: Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) Conference
Event Highlights and Achievements
Annual Conference Overview: Hosted in collaboration with Women of the Vine & Spirits Global CONNECT, the DISCUS conference took place at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront from March 4-6, 2024 [15][16].
Attendance and Participation: The event was a sell-out with over 725 industry leaders and partners, featuring high-profile speakers like Guy Fieri and Dan Butkus from Santo Spirits [14][15].
Educational and Inspirational Sessions: Topics ranged from courageous leadership and DEI integration to innovation, attracting a diverse group of attendees [14].
Awards and Recognitions
Lifetime and Impact Awards: Jim Bareuther received the DISCUS Lifetime Achievement Award 2024, while Arielle Pierre was recognized with the DISCUS Impact Award for Emerging Leaders [14].
Special Category Awards: Brooke Glover and Hillary Wirtz were honored with the DISCUS Dave Pickerell Memorial Craft Member of the Year 2024 and the DISCUS DEI Leadership Award 2024, respectively [14].
Initiatives and Advocacy
Launching New Campaigns: DISCUS introduced the Cocktail Party, a fictional political entity aimed at uniting adult consumers on important industry issues [14].
Addressing Industry Challenges: Women of the Vine & Spirits launched the 86 Harassment initiative, with DISCUS's support, to combat sexual harassment and gender-based violence in the sector [14].
Special Mentions
Humanitarian Efforts: The conference also recognized World Central Kitchen with the first-ever Humanitarian Spirit Award for their significant contributions [14].
Public Policy Focus: Alongside the conference, over 120 virtual congressional visits were organized, emphasizing advocacy and policy impact [14][20].
Networking and Industry Growth
Trade Show and Tasting Opportunities: A vibrant trade show floor showcased a wide array of spirits producers and brand owners from across the nation, facilitating networking and business opportunities [14].
Innovation Showcase: Devil’s Cask triumphed in the Innovation Showcase Competition, highlighting the event's focus on pioneering products and services in the spirits industry [14].
#5: Craft Beverage Expo
Event Overview
The Craft Beverage Expo, organized by the Craft Beverage Education Association (CBEA), is a significant annual gathering tailored for professionals across various segments including craft beer, wine, cider, mead, and spirits [9]. Scheduled for May 7-8, 2024, in Reno, NV, this event is co-located with the Tasting & Tap Room Expo, enhancing its appeal and breadth [10].
Key Features and Opportunities
Educational Seminars and Workshops: Attendees can engage in over 15 educational seminars and workshops, designed to address critical topics like branding, marketing, and distribution strategies [10].
Expo Floor Attractions: The expo features more than 90 suppliers and exhibitors, presenting a chance to explore the latest products, solutions, and equipment in the craft beverage industry [10].
Networking and Growth: The event offers numerous networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers and learn best practices across all market segments [11].
Registration and Special Programs
Entry Fees: Various registration options are available including Full Conference at $375, 1 Day Conference at $195, and Expo Only at $50 [11].
Hosted Buyer Program: This exclusive program covers registration fees and provides a complimentary two-night stay at the host hotel, offering significant value for attendees [10].
Additional Highlights
Exhibitor and Expo Details: The expo includes a comprehensive Map of Expo Hall, an Exhibitor List, and a detailed Expo Schedule, ensuring attendees can plan their visit efficiently [11].
Customizable Experience: With a diverse array of workshops, seminars, and panels, the expo allows attendees to tailor their experience to best fit their professional needs and interests [10].
#6: Miami Rum Congress
Event Details and Schedule
Location and Dates: Takes place at the Miami Beach Convention Center and The Gates by Double Tree from February 9th to 11th, 2024 [13][12].
Comprehensive Schedule: Events include RUM CONGRESS, Grand Tasting Industry "Trade" Session, VIP Rum Expert Session, GA Session, and Industry Sunday Soiree [13][12].
Educational and Premium Experiences
Rum Education Program: Focuses on premiumization and trade aspects of the rum industry [13][12].
Speaker Lineup: Features industry experts such as Julio Cabrera, Matt Pietrek, Noidys Herrera, among others [13].
Ticketing and Participation
Variety of Passes: Ticket prices range from $20 for general sessions to $165 for exclusive VIP experiences [13].
Registration Details: For booking and more information, contact info@therumlab.com [13].
Networking and Competitions
Industry Networking: Opportunities to connect with leading rum brands and professionals [13].
Bartender Competition: Showcases talent from across the globe, enhancing the competitive spirit of the event [13].
Partnership and Sponsorship
Sponsorship Levels: Includes Title Sponsors, Silver Sponsors, and Strategic Partners among others [13].
Brand Visibility: Confirmed Brands and Spirits Sponsors participate, increasing their market presence [13].
#6: Bar Convent Brooklyn
Event Essentials
Dates and Location: Scheduled for June 11-12, 2024, at Industry City, Brooklyn, NY [14].
Contact Information: For inquiries, email inquiry@barconventbrooklyn.com or call 800-346-8372 [15].
Registration Details
Pricing Structure:
2-Day Pass: $140 (Advanced Pricing), $180 (After 6/3/24)
Single Day (Tuesday or Wednesday): $90 (Advanced Pricing), $120 (After 6/3/24) [15].
Qualifications: This is a trade-only event, open exclusively to bar and beverage industry professionals who are 21 years or older [15].
Educational Opportunities
Education Schedule Announcement: The full schedule was released on April 18, 2024 [14].
Sessions and Events: Attendees can look forward to demonstrations, keynote addresses, and panel discussions by leading industry experts [16].
2024 Education Committee: Comprised of forward-thinking professionals, the committee curates a comprehensive educational program [18].
Exhibitor and Sponsor Information
Exhibitors Include: iichiko USA Inc., Originals Broken Bones d.o.o., among others [17].
Sponsorship Opportunities: Options for exhibitors and sponsors are detailed on the event’s website [15].
Additional Resources
Website Features: Includes a Show Map, Education & Events Overview, Speaker List, and more. Also provides detailed information on Hotel & Travel, including a Travel Information section [15].
Special Events: Features an Opening Night Party and various special events throughout the duration of the expo [15].
#7: USA Trade Tasting and Business Conference (USATT)
Event Details
Location and Date: The 2024 USA Trade Tasting and Business Conference is scheduled for May 22-23 at Morgan MFG, 401 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL [20].
Conference Agenda: Starting at 10 am each day, the event includes a cocktail hour from 6 pm to 7 pm on May 22 [20].
Speakers and Sessions
Speakers: The conference will host 30 speakers including Kaleigh Theriault, Christopher Bauer, and Morgan Harris MS, offering insights on beverage industry trends and business growth [19].
Educational Content: 24 sit-down tastings and 2 masterclasses are part of the educational offerings [19].
Networking and Exhibitions
Expo and Cocktail Party: An expo floor will be available for showcasing products, alongside a networking cocktail party [19].
Exhibitor Opportunities: Brands can engage with importers, distributors, and consumers, with details for exhibitors available on the USATT website [19].
Tickets and Registration
Pricing: Conference tickets range from $150 (Super Early Bird) to $200 (Regular). Trade tickets are free, while consumer tickets cost $30 [20].
Schedule: Includes set-up, tastings, masterclasses, and packing up, with full details on the USATT website [20].
Additional Information
Support and Queries: For further assistance, contact USATT at info@usatradetasting.com or call +1 855-481-1112 [19].
Sponsorship: Various sponsorship packages are tailored to different budgets and requirements [19].
#8: Chicago Rum Festival
Event Details and Highlights
Date and Location: Scheduled for April 20, 2024, at Logan Square Auditorium, 2539 N Kedzie Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647 [21].
Organizer: The festival is organized by TheRumLab.com, known for their dedication to rum education and premiumization [21].
Festival Overview
Event Type: A boutique-style festival primarily focusing on the educational aspects of rum and its premiumization, attracting a diverse audience including trade professionals, rum aficionados, tourists, and locals [21].
Ticket Options & Schedule
VIP Rum Experts Session: 1:30 pm - 7:00 pm, offering an exclusive experience for rum enthusiasts [21].
The Trade "Industry" Session: 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm, tailored for industry professionals to network and learn [21].
Rum Aficionados GA Tasting Session: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm, open to the general public for tasting and education [21].
Educational Seminars
Transcontinental Aging Seminar: Starts at 2:45 pm, discussing the aging processes across different continents [22].
The Importance of Puerto Rican Rum Seminar: Begins at 3:45 pm, highlighting the unique aspects of Puerto Rican rum [21].
Le Décollage – Cane Rules Everything Around Me (C.R.E.A.M) Seminar: At 4:45 pm, exploring the economic impact of sugarcane [21].
Haitian Rhums & Culture Seminar: Scheduled for 5:45 pm, delving into the rich culture and tradition of Haitian rums [21].
Sponsors & Key Partners
Main Sponsors: Includes renowned brands such as Plantation Rum, Barbancourt Rhum, Zacapa Rum, Diplomatico Rum, and many others, showcasing a broad spectrum of the rum industry [21].
#9: Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
Event Overview
The 2024 Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Conference, named Access LIVE, is scheduled to take place from January 29 to February 1, 2024, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. This premier event is expected to draw over 2,500 attendees from all 50 states and D.C., highlighting its national importance and scope [23][24].
Keynote Speakers and Sessions
The conference will feature keynote addresses from notable figures such as Linda Bernardi, former IBM Chief Innovation Officer, and Paul Abbate, Deputy Director of the FBI. These sessions aim to address critical industry issues like retail theft, with a special focus during the opening and closing ceremonies [25].
Exhibitors and Industry Innovation
Access LIVE 2024 will host over 400 exhibitors, including for the first time, participants from the hemp-beverage industry. This inclusion marks a significant expansion in the variety of products showcased at the event [25].
Exclusive Insights and Data Access
Attendees will benefit from exclusive access to WSWA’s SipSource analysts and data, providing invaluable market insights and trends specific to the wine and spirits industry [25].
Registration and Early Bird Specials
Registration for Access LIVE 2024 is now open, with early bird rates available until October 13, 2023. This offers potential attendees a chance to secure their participation at a reduced cost [26].
#10: ProWein
ProWein 2024 Overview
ProWein 2024, the International Specialist Trade Fair for Wines and Spirits, is set to take place from March 10 to March 12, 2024, at Messe Düsseldorf, Germany. This event is renowned for being one of the largest gatherings in the wine and spirits industry, expected to attract over 50,000 professionals globally [27][28].
Key Features of ProWein 2024
Exhibitors and Global Reach: Approximately 5,700 exhibitors from more than 60 countries will showcase their products, making it the most comprehensive international wine and spirits event [27].
Special Areas:
ProWein Zero: Located in Hall 1, dedicated to the trending "no-and-low" alcohol products [27].
Organic and Sustainable Focus:
Around 300 international exhibitors will present organic wines [27].
A special show named Organic World will also be featured in Hall 4 [27].
Global Extensions and Digital Tools
ProWein extends its reach globally with events in Asia and South America, including ProWine Sao Paulo, ProWine Shanghai, among others [27]. The digital ProWein platform enhances visitor experience with tools for matchmaking, event information, and networking opportunities [28].
Sustainability Initiatives
The 2024 edition will highlight significant sustainability efforts in the Champagne sector, with a special Highlight Route showcasing selected manufacturers and their environmental initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints and promoting biodiversity [29].
Admission and Resources
ProWein 2024 is open exclusively for trade professionals, with tickets available online [28]. A ProWein Guide, providing a compact version of the event catalogue, is freely available at all entrances, ensuring attendees can navigate the extensive offerings efficiently [28].
FAQs
What is the most significant international trade fair for wines and spirits?
ProWein stands as the largest and most crucial international trade fair for wines and spirits. It serves as an ideal stage for the Wine in Moderation program to broaden its reach and share its message with industry professionals from around the globe.
When and where will the WSWA 2024 take place?
The must-attend WSWA 2024 event is scheduled from January 29 to February 1, 2024, and will be hosted at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas.
Which event is the biggest specialty food industry trade show in the United States?
The Summer Fancy Food Show holds the title as the largest specialty food industry trade show in North America. It is recognized as the top venue for showcasing industry innovation and offers a convenient, cost-effective opportunity for exhibitors to connect with buyers from every significant food and beverage purchasing channel both in the U.S. and internationally.
What does the acronym WSWA represent?
WSWA stands for the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America. This organization acts as a conduit to legislative and regulatory developments in Washington, D.C., and across the nation, representing the interests of wine and spirits wholesalers.
