The WSTA is one of six finalists in the ‘Best Conference under 225 attendees’ category, and have also made the final round of the ‘Best National Association’ category.
Miles Beale, chief executive of the WSTA, said: “Whilst 2018 is only a few days old, we’re already building on the success of last year and continuing to do all we can for wine and spirits. Nevertheless, it would be fantastic to pick up an award in February – or even do the double.”
In its first submission, the WSTA centred on their Annual Conference, which featured a line-up of speakers including Lord Price, former trade minister, and Tim Martin, Wetherspoon chairman.
The Conference set out how the Government can deliver for the wine and spirit industry during Britain’s exit from the European Union, and also invited attendees to think creatively about the opportunities that Brexit may present.
The second submission set out how the WSTA delivered for its members during what it described as a ‘turbulent’ 2017.
Navigating through the uncertainty created by the developing Brexit negotiations, a surprise general election and subsequent hung Parliament, the WSTA worked throughout 2017 to secure a freeze in alcohol duty in the November Budget.
Alongside this, the WSTA hosted several events overseas to foster export opportunities for members, and maintained a consistent and clear presence in the media right throughout the year.
