The global membership organization’s milestone anniversary commemorates a decade of progress and underscores the industry’s collective commitment to the advocacy of women in beverage alcohol
January 14, 2025 (New York, NY) – Women of the Vine & Spirits (WOTVS), the leading mission-driven global membership organization comprised of women and men committed to empowering and advancing women, is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its mission to advocate for women in the beverage alcohol industry.
Founded in 2015 by Deborah Brenner, WOTVS was the first organization to unite all three tiers and industry sectors to champion women in the workplace. Together, with its esteemed representation of Corporate Members, WOTVS is shaping the beverage alcohol industry where the talents and perspectives of all women are not only valued but serve as a driving force for success and growth.
Over the past decade, WOTVS and its Corporate Members have been instrumental in driving industry progress by empowering women through targeted initiatives that break down professional barriers and create meaningful career opportunities in the beverage alcohol sector.
“Ten years ago, I envisioned a community where women and men in beverage alcohol could take off their competitive hats to connect, share best practices and accelerate industry-wide change,” said Deborah Brenner, Founder & CEO of Women of the Vine & Spirits. “Today, WOTVS is a thriving global network that has made significant strides in fostering a more gender-diverse industry, changing the face of beverage alcohol. This milestone reflects the dedication of our Corporate Members and our community’s unwavering belief in our mission.”
Notable Milestones Over the Past Decade
Since its founding, WOTVS has established itself as a driving force, with initiatives and resources that continue to empower its members and the industry at large. These milestones are not only accomplishments – they remain integral to the organization’s mission, offering members ongoing opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation:
- Unprecedented Global Membership Growth
WOTVS has grown its community to over 160 Corporate Member companies and more than 10,000 professionals worldwide, spanning all three tiers and all industry sectors. - Pioneering Educational Programming
WOTVS is a leading resource for industry education through interactive, weekly virtual Live Chats. Featuring expertise and insights from Corporate Members who are leaders in their fields and positions, these sessions explore vital topics such as business development, industry innovation, marketing trends and, career advancement. - Unmatched Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
Through the global Membership Directory, industry-specific Job Board, collaborative Business Resource Groups, Breaking Barriers Series with senior male leaders, and in-person Regional Events, WOTVS fosters invaluable opportunities for mentorship and collaboration, connecting members to industry professionals, peers and companies who share in their values. - Advocacy for Gender Diversity and Inclusion
By spearheading initiatives like the groundbreaking DE&I benchmark study, Women Raising the Bar in collaboration with Deloitte, and creating the WOTVS C-Suite list of women leaders, the organization has amplified awareness and sparked action toward greater inclusivity and advancement of all women in the beverage alcohol industry. - Empowering Through Global Scholarships
The Women of the Vine & Spirits Foundation, Ltd. 501 (c)(3) – the charitable arm of Women of the Vine & Spirits – has awarded $959,620 in scholarships to women in 80 countries, offering professional development and educational opportunities that empower women in food, wine, spirits, beer, and hospitality industries. - Addressing Sexual Harassment with “86 Harassment”
Tackling critical issues head-on, WOTVS launched 86 Harassment, an unprecedented industry-wide initiative aimed at creating safer workplace environments in the beverage alcohol and hospitality industries. With the support of Industry Sponsors as well as experts in violence prevention efforts, 86 Harassment provides vital training, education, and confidential support, fostering respect and safety for all.
Continued Commitment: The Next Decade and Beyond
As WOTVS celebrates this milestone, the organization and its Corporate Members remain steadfast in their shared commitment to addressing ongoing challenges faced by women in the industry. While progress has been made, the pace toward gender equality remains slow, necessitating continuous efforts to drive meaningful change.
“Women of the Vine & Spirits’ 10th anniversary not only celebrates past achievements of the organization and those of our Corporate Member companies but also serves as a renewed call to action for ongoing advocacy and empowerment of women in the beverage alcohol sector,” said Elizabeth Campbell Boyd, Vice President of Women of the Vine & Spirits. “We are so grateful to our Corporate Members for their continued support and commitment to our shared mission and invite others to join us in making a lasting positive impact for the next decade and beyond.”
Celebrating a Decade of Impact: Regional and Industry Events Marking the Milestone Anniversary
To commemorate its 10th Anniversary, WOTVS Corporate Members are hosting celebratory WOTVS Regional Events throughout the year:
- March 11: WOTVS Regional Event with Corporate Member J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – Paso Robles, CA
- April 8: WOTVS Regional Event with Corporate Member Disaronno – New York, NY
- May 7: WOTVS Regional Event with Corporate Member New Riff Distillery – Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati region
- June 4: WOTVS Regional Event with Corporate Member DISCUS – Washington DC
Additional WOTVS Regional Events are being planned. These events and more can be found on the WOTVS Event Calendar at womenofthevine.com.
Women of the Vine & Spirits will also be in attendance – connecting with their members and those interested in learning more – at these notable industry events this year:
- February 3-6: WSWA Access Live Industry Event – Denver, CO
- March 26-28: DISCUS Annual Conference Industry Event – Washington, DC
For more information about joining as a Corporate Member, contact Nicole Anderson at nicole@womenofthevine.com
About Women of the Vine & Spirits
Women of the Vine & Spirits® (WOTVS) is the leading mission-driven global membership organization comprised of women and men who are committed to empowering and advancing women in the beverage alcohol industry. By championing women in the workplace, WOTVS is dedicated to shaping the beverage alcohol industry where the talents and perspectives of all women are not only valued but serve as a driving force for success and growth. WOTVS embodies this commitment by offering resources, programs, and a collaborative network designed to inspire and empower members in the beverage alcohol industry. Through mentorship, education, and advocacy, WOTVS’ aims to elevate its members’ careers, cultivate inclusive leadership, and pave the way for innovation and growth in this dynamic field. For more information, please visit womenofthevine.com.
Women of the Vine & Spirits Corporate Members include Charter Member: Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Diamond Members: Breakthru Beverage Group; Pernod Ricard USA; and Republic National Distributing Company; Platinum Members:J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines; O’Neill Vintners & Distillers; and Suntory Global Spirits. For a full list of Corporate Members including those at the Gold, Silver, Bronze and Associate level, visit the Corporate Members tab at womenofthevine.com
