Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) members have long worked to support local and state laws designed to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage drinkers and establish strict accountability.

Protection of the consumer and variety of choice via prevention of monopolies are some of the main accomplishments of the Three Tier System, and strongly supported by WSWA.

Wholesalers are the central link in the Three-Tier System, providing a clear chain of custody and traceability for all your favorite beverage alcohol products.  Since product must travel from a verified supplier or importer through a wholesaler before being sold to consumers by a retailer, regulatory oversight is simplified and consumers can enjoy their beverage knowing it is a genuine and safe-for-consumption product.

Alcohol is one of the most highly taxed consumer goods.  But how does efficient tax collection help the consumer?  The three-tier system has ensured the collection of billions of dollars in taxes at the local, state, and federal levels, thereby creating the world’s most reliable and cost-effective system of revenue collection. 

The times and way product has been sold have changed, but the need for an orderly, well-regulated marketplace, efficient tax collection and social responsibility has not.

WSWA is committed to responsible distribution of alcohol and prevention of underage drinking.

Beyond these policies, WSWA has joined forces with the National Center for DWI Courts (NCDC) to promote best practices for DWI Courts and promote the wider use of these effective treatment programs for serious and repeat offenders.

Ignition interlocks are an effective means to combat hardcore drunk drivers. While there have been significant decreases in the number of alcohol related crashes, fatalities and injuries in the last two decades, WSWA remains steadfast in its commitment to fight drunk driving.