EDITOR ' S NOTE
THE LOOMING THREAT OF TARIFFS
At a time when the beverage alcohol industry is trying to keep its head above water during an economic slowdown, the threat of renewed European Union tariffs is further rattling companies.
Touching on this subject was Dina Opici, president of Opici Family Distributing and chairwoman of WSWA. She opened WSWA’ s Access LIVE 2025 event with a State of the Industry address, providing an assessment of the challenges facing wholesalers, suppliers and retailers, outlining the current and potential future headwinds.
Given tequila’ s role as a major driver of U. S. spirits sales, tariffs are a significant concern. According to economic analysis by John Dunham and Associates, a 25 % tariff on tequila alone could cost 14,000 jobs and result in $ 2.5 billion in lost economic output.
“ We have to tell our story,” Opici said in her address.“ Our products are deeply tied to their country of origin, and the administration must understand that these tariffs will hurt American businesses just as much as foreign producers.”
Aside from the looming threat of tariffs, beverage alcohol companies are also being inundated with changing consumer preferences to low and no alcohol options. And while this doesn’ t necessarily mean brands are being booted out, it does mean that serious changes need to be made in order to keep sales numbers up.
Opici also discussed changing consumer preferences in her opening address at WSWA’ s Access LIVE.
“ For the first time in history, regular cannabis use among Americans is more common than regular alcohol consumption,” Opici said.
She also mentioned the increasing use of GLP−1 weight-loss medications, which have been reported to reduce alcohol consumption, and is adding to market uncertainty.
“ The market is no longer what we once knew,” Opici continued.“ We need to look at this as a chance to evolve and innovate.”
Trade Managing Editor Krystina Skibo Tel: 763-383-4419 email: kskibo @ epgacceleration. com
Editor, Off-Premise Kyle Swartz Tel: 763-383-4447 email: kswartz @ epgacceleration. com
Contributing Editors Melissa Dowling, Marnie Old, Tom Shay
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Associate Managing Art Director Nicole Siewert
Senior Product Manager, Data & Insights Marina Velez Tel: 763-383-4453 email: mvelez @ epgacceleration. com
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Beverage Group Vice President Jeremy Nedelka Sr VP / Audience Development Joanne Juda-Prainito Corporate Operations Director Bernadette Wohlman CEO Marion Minor
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4 Beverage Wholesaler • Summer 2025 www. beveragewholesaler. com