By Blake Jackson
The University of Kentucky’s James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits (JBBI), in collaboration with the Kentucky Distillers' Association (KDA), is now accepting registrations for the 2025 Industry Conference. Scheduled for March 17-19, 2025, at the University of Kentucky campus, the conference will bring together distillers, researchers, and industry professionals to share knowledge and advance the spirits industry.
This year’s conference will feature a diverse range of sessions led by industry experts, covering topics such as spirit production, new technologies, business practices, agriculture, and consumer trends like branding and sales. The conference is an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to network and learn from one another while exploring current and emerging topics in the distillery world.
The keynote address will be delivered by Ouita Michel, chef-in-residence at Woodford Reserve Distillery and owner of several farm-to-table restaurants in the Lexington area. Michel’s experience in both the culinary and spirits industries offers valuable insight for attendees.
“I cannot wait to welcome everyone back to campus. Spring break week here on campus is a wonderful time to run the conference, as the incredible facilities at the Gatton Student Center and Champions kitchen are all ours,” said Seth DeBolt, director of JBBI. “There is just something about a university environment too—the world class facilities and overall spirit of learning make it ideal for networking, exchanging ideas or checking out our industry leading vendors.”
“This conference brings together minds from all over the globe to collaborate and move the needle forward for our signature industry,” said KDA President Eric Gregory. “Kentucky is the place, and this is the conference for world-class research and discussion.”
Early bird registration is available until January 21, 2025, with full conference passes priced at $400 and one-day passes at $200. After January 22, registration fees will increase to $500 and $250, respectively. Discounts are available for students, faculty, and staff. The registration fee covers educational sessions, exhibits, lunch, and networking opportunities.
For more details or to register, visit the JBBI conference website.
Photo Credit: pixabay-crafterchef
Categories: Kentucky, Business