Conference for one of Kentucky’s most prized industries held in Lexington

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - More than 1,000 spirits industry professionals, more than 100 speakers, and three full days of conversation surround one of Kentucky’s most prized industries: bourbon.

The James B. Beam Industry Conference, held at the University of Kentucky, is the global stage to showcase key industry developments and changes.

“When you see the level of energy that’s coming out of the conference across the world, it makes you remember how fortunate you are to work in the industry,” said Greg Hughes, President and CEO of Suntory Global Spirits.

Growing the industry can start as early as investing in students.

One conference goal is to connect students currently learning at the school’s James B. Beam Institute to future careers.

“We have a robust internship program with many of our partners, where students get to test drive the industry and the industry test drives new talent, and says ‘okay is this a good fit?’” said Dr. Seth DeBolt, Director of James B Beam institute for Kentucky Spirits and Distillation.

With the country’s political climate in mind, it’s no shock that the state of the bourbon industry in light tariff conversations is on the minds of many at the conference.

“I think it’s important that we all stay united and try to work through these issues that have nothing to do with bourbon. We’re really trying to get back to our main, core business of making the world’s greatest whisky,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association.

These are just a few parts of the conference’s bigger goal to perfect one of Kentucky’s greatest arts.

“A healthy bourbon industry, a healthy spirits industry is part of what makes the communities thrive,” said Hughes.

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