Indiana alcohol distributor group changes name, launches new Web site
INDIANAPOLIS - The Wine and Spirits Distributors of Indiana (WSDI), formerly the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of Indiana, has launched a new Web site " www.WineandSpiritsIndiana.org" to educate the public about its role in the responsible distribution of alcohol. WSDI is a not-for-profit trade association that serves its members' interests and advocates an alcohol distribution system that maintains public safety, consumer protection and consumer choice.
"With the launch of our new Web site, we hope to reach thousands of consumers concerned about the alcohol industry," said Jim Purucker, WSDI's executive director. "We take our motto - 'Serve Responsibly' - to heart. Each of the member companies that make up WSDI is committed to safeguarding alcohol distribution."
The organization is made up of Indiana fine wine and spirits distributors, including National Wine & Spirits and Olinger Distributing. WSDI also partners with other distributors, including Monarch Beverage, a leading Indiana beer and wine distributor. Like many states, Indiana's alcohol market operates under a three-tier system: alcohol producers sell only to Indiana-licensed distributors, who in turn sell only to Indiana-licensed retailers, who then sell to consumers. This system gives Hoosiers a very efficient system of regulating the sales and consumption of alcohol.
Because of Indiana's wine, spirits and beer distributors and the three-tier distribution system, the state of Indiana is able to track alcohol within its borders in a transparent, accountable and efficient manner. Hoosier consumers can rest assured that alcohol products are safe, that their beverage of choice is on the shelf at local retailers, and that minors' access to alcohol is reduced.
WSDI also provides members with representation before the Indiana General Assembly, state agencies, regulatory bodies, courts, alcohol beverage industry organizations and the general public. In addition, the organization supports social responsibility efforts to enforce Indiana's interest in eliminating underage and abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages.