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The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is the trade body for the Scotch Whisky industry. With more than a century's experience of looking after the interests of this iconic industry, we are recognised as one of the leading trade associations in the UK and are a respected and recognised voice in markets around the world.
We strive to deliver the best possible global business environment for Scotch Whisky, in order to ensure Scotch Whisky continues to be the world's premier whisky and consumers' spirit of choice.
To achieve this, we work closely with our members, with the UK and Scottish governments, international governments, and other partners to shape the future in favour of Scotch.
How joining the SWA will be a step up for your business
It will enhance your reputation and help to build consumer confidence in your product, and provide you with the ability to make connections and gain political clout and expertise, turning one small voice into a persuasive, collective one.
Being a member opens up a lot of useful practical information on all manners of subjects and it gives us the opportunity to widen our network which would be difficult to achieve otherwise.
- Ian Palmer, former Managing Director, InchDairnie Distillery
Benefits
We have a passion for Scotch Whisky and care about our members' interests, both at home and abroad. We work hard to create the best possible business environment so all members, small and large, can grow their business and reach their full potential.
Benefits of joining would provide:
- Easily accessible information through our online knowledge base member portal;
- Support through the wealth of expertise and experience of our staff;
- Opportunities for producers of all sizes to participate on issues that affect individual businesses and the industry as a whole through our Committee structure;
- Invaluable opportunities to network, develop policy and share best practice at our events;
- A range of services, advice and guidance applicable to the industry;
- A range of publications and research data which can be used to train employees or use with external stakeholders.
Here is a sample of SWA benefits and services:
We appreciate the Scotch Whisky Association’s ability to raise and resolve issues of concern to us with both elected members and officials in Scotland, the UK and abroad.
- Liam Hughes, Co-Founder, Glasgow Distillery
Lobbying
SWA aims to promote and facilitate communication and understanding between the industry members and various government departments whether Scottish, UK or international. All lobbying is recorded in Scotland's Lobbying Register.
Services, Advice & Guidance
- Market Information Database
- Industry Statistics
- Label Design
- New Product Development
- HMRC Compliance
Publications & Research
Benefits
We offer a unique membership base which represents over 90 member companies, from global spirits producers to family-owned firms, established to new distillers, that accounts for the majority of Scotch Whisky production. Our members own hundreds of brands and thousands of expressions enjoyed in more than 180 markets worldwide.
How to Join
Applications for membership from limited companies which are Scotch Whisky distillers, blenders, brand owners of a proprietary brand, if engaged in the wholesale Scotch Whisky trade or brokers solely engaged in the wholesale Scotch Whisky trade are welcome.