Denver emerged as the focal point of the beverage alcohol industry, hosting over 2,400 professionals for Access LIVE 2025.
Showcasing innovation, collaboration, and trend forecasting, the event offered attendees a place for educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and insights from industry leaders.
Dina Opici, Chairwoman of WSWA, kicked off the event by emphasizing the importance of unity and adaptability, especially with market shifts. With evolving consumer preferences and the rising influence of cannabis and health-conscious trends, Opici stresses the need for wholesalers and suppliers to work together to drive innovation and sustainable growth.
The LIVE Stage served as a center for industry insights and expertise. Experts from across the industry hosted discussions on growth strategies, leadership development, leveraging social media for brand success, and industry trends and forecasting. Emerging brands received valuable advice on scaling, market entry, and forging strong distributor partners – crucial for those aspiring into the competitive marketplace.
In collaboration with The Tasting Alliance, WSWA introduced a competition that awarded over 400 medals across wine, spirits, and ready-to-drink categories. The initiative not only recognizes outstanding craftmanship but also provided brands with esteemed industry validation.
A standout feature of Access LIVE 2025 was The Hub, an interactive place tailored to support brand development. Attendees participated in Mixology Workshops, refined their elevator pitches at The Brand Building Bar, and engaged with wholesalers in one-on-one meetings covering etiquette, feedback, and product packaging. Brands also benefitted from professional content creation services by Pour Agency and The Apartment Creative Studio.
The 2025 Brand Battle spotlighted a selection of the most promising and innovative emerging brands, with Amante 1530, an Italian amaro, winning the judges over and wanting more. Amante 1530 is a brand to watch in the coming years.
Notable personalities Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul shared their journey of launching Dom Hombres Mezcal, emphasizing authenticity and passion as the driving forces behind their success in the spirits world.
WSWA Access Live 2025 delivered more than just a trade event, it fostered meaningful conversations, provided actionable strategies, and reinforced the industry’s commitment to innovation and leadership development. As the beverage alcohol space continues to evolve, collaboration and adaptability will remain essential for success.
Save the Date: Access LIVE 2026
February 2-5, 2026 – Las Vegas, NV
