KDA debuts responsible retailing scheme for distilleries

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) has partnered with Better Drinking Culture (BCD) on a responsible retailing programme to help distilleries prevent alcohol abuse.

The new responsible retailing programme has launched in Kentucky

The new programme will help distilleries to “provide memorable experiences and mitigate alcohol-related harms”. Upon competition of an audit, a distillery will receive certification from the BDC.

Under the programme, certified distilleries train a minimum of one employee as a BDC ambassador.

Throughout 2019, BDC will work with ambassadors from each distillery to promote the partnership to Kentucky residents and visitors through lifestyle content, visitor center resources, social events, and industry initiatives.

The programme, which initially launched in Michigan, has now debuted in Kentucky.

To date, BDC has granted certification to 14 KDA member distilleries, including Angel’s Envy, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Boone County Distilling Company, Copper & Kings, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center, Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Maker’s Mark, New Riff, Old Forester Distilling Company, Rabbit Hole, Wilderness Trail, Willett, and Woodford Reserve.

“BDC’s mission is to shift our culture’s relationship with alcohol in a healthier and more positive direction – to help people live healthier and drink better – because hangovers suck,” said Jason Ley, Better Drinking Culture CEO. “Distilleries that complete our certification programme help us fulfil that mission.”

KDA president Eric Gregory said: “We’re proud of the investments our distilleries have made to incorporate alcohol responsibility practices within their visitor centres and brands.

“As BDC launches this responsible retailing programme for distilleries in other states, we’re confident our performance sets the bar nationwide.”