#United States #Washington D.C. #beverage industry #WSWA #Women's Leadership

Empowering Women Leaders in the Beverage Industry

The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) held its much-anticipated 2025 Women's Leadership Council (WLC) Conference in Washington D.C. last week, attracting women leaders from across the beverage alcohol sector. This two-day event provided a platform for education, networking, and leadership development, featuring interactive sessions that emphasized advocacy, innovation, and strategic insights tailored to the needs of women in the industry.

The conference's scope was impressive, encompassing various topics essential for personal and professional growth. Attendees engaged in sessions that ranged from discussing the importance of standing out while fitting in to exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping the beverage industry. With a focus on actionable leadership tools, the event resonated with participants eager to embrace the evolving landscape of the wholesale beverage market.

Catherine McDaniel, WSWA's Senior Vice President of Member Advocacy, highlighted the conference's purpose, stating, "This year's WLC Conference reaffirms our commitment to not only amplify women's voices in the wholesale tier but also to deliver actionable leadership tools that drive both personal growth and business success in a rapidly evolving industry." This sentiment was echoed throughout the conference, where speakers shared insights and strategies that could be immediately implemented in their careers.

Distinguished speakers graced the stage, including Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women's Memorial, and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. Notable military figures such as Lieutenant General Mary O’Brien and Lieutenant General Lori Reynolds also participated, sharing their experiences and insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of women supporting women in the workplace.

The WLC Conference included thought-provoking panel discussions and interactive workshops designed to empower women in navigating the complexities of the beverage industry. Notably, sessions like "AI Uncorked: How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping the Beverage Industry" equipped attendees with knowledge about technological advancements that are crucial for staying ahead in a competitive market. Furthermore, a fireside chat with SipSource leadership provided practical market forecasting and analytical strategies that attendees could apply to their businesses immediately.

Social networking events and philanthropic activities were also pivotal aspects of this year's conference. Attendees had the opportunity to visit the Military Women's Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, which not only fostered connections among peers but also underscored the significance of community support and shared experiences.

Laura DePasquale, Chair of WSWA’s Women's Leadership Council and Senior Vice President at Southern Glazer’s, expressed her optimism for the future, stating, "The energy, collaboration, and insight at this year's gathering were nothing short of inspiring. Seeing women from all levels—from rising professionals to seasoned executives—come together, share their journeys, and chart new paths forward is exactly what the WLC is meant to foster."

The beverage alcohol industry is facing transformative changes driven by regulatory shifts, evolving consumer preferences, and technological disruptions. In this context, WSWA's WLC Conference has solidified its role as a vital venue for women leaders, enabling them to stay ahead of emerging trends and cultivate meaningful relationships that will influence the future of the industry.

As WSWA continues to serve the interests of its members, the commitment to empowering women in leadership within the beverage sector remains stronger than ever. With over 380 member companies and a significant share of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the U.S., WSWA's initiatives reflect a progressive movement towards inclusivity and innovation in the industry.