Join Us FAQs

Is my company eligible to join the SWA?

To be eligible for Membership of the SWA you must be a limited company (and any other form of body corporate as the SWA Council may decide from time to time), a distiller, blender or owner of a Proprietary Brand, if engaged in the wholesale Scotch Whisky trade, or a broker, if solely engaged in the wholesale Scotch Whisky trade.

Applicants should also be able to demonstrate that they have sound financial standing.  This can normally be satisfied if they can produce audited accounts for the previous two financial years.  If an applicant isn’t able to provide these and they meet the exemption criteria as outlined here then we can proceed with an unaudited set of accounts.

What if my company doesn't meet the requirements for membership?

If you don’t meet the criteria at the moment but think you will in the future (e.g. you haven’t been trading for 2 years), we can add your details to our database and we will be in touch.  Please provide your contact details to our Corporate Services Team (membership@swa.org.uk).

Do you represent small companies?

Yes, we offer a unique membership base which represents over 80 member companies, from global spirits producers, family-owned firms and established to new distillers. 

How can I join the SWA?

Membership of the SWA requires the payment of an annual membership subscription which is based on your Scotch Whisky-related turnover.   There is a 50% discount for new members in the first year of membership and a 25% discount for the second year.  For further details on how to join please click here.

Do you offer an affiliate membership package?

The SWA represents companies who are Scotch Whisky distillers, blenders and brand owners.  We do not offer an affiliate membership package.  

We do however, have a section on our members-only extranet site for companies offering supplies of products or services to our members.  For further information please email info@swa.org.uk.

Does the SWA work for the Government?

The SWA is not funded by either the Scottish or UK Governments; it is an independent Trade Association which represents the interests of its members who are private businesses.