For discussion at our 3rd Quarter 2005 meeting, I am providing some detail about the significance of the Scotch Whisky Association.

The SWA is essentially a trade organization. It’s the main organization that represents the interests of the scotch whisky industry as a whole in Great Britain and overseas. The SWA is comprised of members that represent the industry: distillers, blenders, brokers, brand owners, etc. Overall, the SWA believes it’s current membership represents 95% of the scotch whisky market. The organization is the primary voice for the interests of the scotch whisky industry.

The existence of the SWA has dated back to 1917, but the association didn’t incorporate until 1960. With incorporation, the organization raised its standing to carry out legal proceedings, especially overseas. With the strengthening of its relationship with the rest of Europe, it has been able to influence legislation which has helped to, among other things, 1) keep the identify of scotch whisky intact by covering standards for labeling, marketing, and packaging, 2) review production issues relating to safety, environment, and 3) represent the industry in the tax treatment of scotch whisky.

The SWA has 12-16 members, elected annually by the members, and then the Council further establishes committees to help advise the Council on the different aspects of its work. The main office is in Edinburgh and a second office is in London.

In short, the SWA’s principal functions, as quoted from their website at http://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk, are:
· To promote Scotch Whisky as a quality product made of natural ingredients.
· To protect the image and integrity of Scotch Whisky throughout the world.
· To represent the industry’s interests to the British Government and to overseas governments.
· To fight tax discrimination and trade barriers against Scotch Whisky.