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Drizly enters partnership with US trade body

A trade body representing some of the largest drinks distributors in the US has formed a “strategic partnership” with on-demand alcohol delivery service Drizly, showing technology is “not a disruptor” to regulated industries.

Drizly and the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America have entered into a “strategic partnership”

WSWA Services LLC, an affiliate of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA), which represents around 350 distributors in the country, purchased a minority stake in the Boston-based app for an undisclosed sum, reports The Wall Street Journal.

First launched in 2012, Drizly provides users with beer, wine and spirits straight to their doors in 20-40 minutes and has been seeking “aggressive expansion” in recent months.

According to a statement by WSWA and Drizly, the new alliance will help expand the e-commerce company’s presence with retailer partners across the country.

It is also indicative of “dynamic technological changes” that are “reshaping” the alcoholic beverage industry, the companies stated.

“Drizly’s strategic alliance with WSWA Services shows that technology can be the ally of mature, regulated industries like beverage alcohol – not a disruptor,” said Nick Rellas, co-founder and CEO of Drizly.

“The vision for Drizly has always been to accelerate wholesalers, suppliers and retailers through the consumer’s shift to digital and mobile commerce.

“By joining forces with WSWA Services we take an important step forward in our mission to legally connect supply and demand.”

Meanwhile Craig Wolf, WSWA president and CEO, said the new partnership with Drizly shows that wholesalers are committed to supporting technological advances in the industry.

“Most importantly, this alliance will enhance the three-tier system and amplify the benefits this system currently provides consumers: the widest array of product available anywhere in the world, delivered in a manner that is well regulated and ensures consumer protection, appropriate oversight, and product integrity,” he added.

Drizly unveiled a new brand identity earlier this year designed to emulate the user experience of Amazon, Netflix and Spotify, with emphasis on easy to use navigation.

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