SGWS founding member Bennett Glazer dies
Bennett Glazer, executive vice chairman of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, has died at the age of 80.
Glazer died on Monday 20 April. He was one of the founding members of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the biggest wine and spirits distributor in the US.
Announcing the news on LinkedIn, the company said in a statement: “Bennett was a visionary leader whose passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment helped shape our company into the organisation it is today.
“He had the foresight and championed the transformational combination of Glazer’s with Southern Wine, which a decade ago brought together our two families to create what is now Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. His legacy will endure through the generations of leadership he helped inspire, including members of the Glazer family who continue to play an important role in our business.
“Bennett is survived by his wife, Marion, his daughter, Paige and his son, Sam Glazer, a valued next-generation leader of our Southern Glazer’s team.
“In addition to the lasting impact Bennett made on our company and our culture, he was a respected voice in the industry and a generous supporter of the communities we serve.
“On behalf of our entire organisation, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Glazer family and all who knew and loved him.”
Some of Glazer’s notable accomplishments included leading the revenue growth of Glazer’s Inc (pre-merger) from US$700 million to US$3.7 billion. He was described as instrumental to the merger between Glazer’s and Southern Wine & Spirits in 2016, creating Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
In 2024, he was inducted into the McCombs School of Business Hall of Fame at the University of Texas at Austin for his contributions to the business world.
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) also commented on the death of Glazer.
In a statement, the company said: “Glazer was not only a leader but also a mentor who inspired countless individuals in the industry. His insights into brand building and the importance of relationships were foundational to his success.
“He once said” ‘The bigger the footprint you have, the more important you are in the industry’. This perspective encapsulated his strategic thinking and commitment to growth.”
Cutter Smith, co-president of Eder-Goodman and chairman of WSWA, commented: “Bennett was a formidable force in our industry, and his legacy of leadership and excellence will continue to inspire us all.”
Francis Creighton, WSWA president and CEO, added: “His commitment to the industry was unwavering, and his accomplishments speak volumes about his dedication and tenacity.”
Related news
Southern Glazer's to buy NYC distribution arm
Southern Glazer's Missouri lawsuit dismissed after seven years
