Last week, Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) President and CEO Francis Creighton, General Counsel Jake Hegeman, and Vice President of Federal Affairs Cody Tucker attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. There, WSWA hosted two events that brought together federal and state lawmakers, regulators, Attorneys General, and more to build relationships, network and highlight the value the wholesaler tier brings to local, state, and national economies and communities. Over the course of the week, wholesalers hosted dozens of Members of Congress and governors to further the second tier’s influence and reach.
“These events were great opportunities for WSWA and our industry to build its brand and showcase the critical work wholesalers do every day,” said Creighton. “While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a national convention, we attend events like this to connect with key policymakers and to promote our industry’s issues like the upcoming Section199A tax deduction expiration.”
Raising a Glass to Democratic Attorneys General!
In partnership with Breakthru Beverage Group and the Democratic Attorneys General Association, WSWA brought together Attorneys General from across the country to reiterate the value we find in our partnerships and how we look forward to continuing to work together to support the industry and our businesses.
Raising a Glass to Illinois Democratic Leaders!
In partnership with Breakthru Beverage Illinois and the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, WSWA hosted an event in the Blackhawks practice facility that brought together top-level Democratic leaders from across the state -- including Governor J.B Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Members of Congress, and more than a hundred state executives and lawmakers, Aldermen, county commissioners, community leaders and more.
Executive Director and General Counsel at Wine and Spirits Distributors of Illinois Jeremy Kruidenier helped to coordinate event attendees. “Events like this are critical to showcasing the value of wholesalers locally and across the country,” said Kruidenier. “Working with national organizations helps to frame the scale of this industry and its impact.”