SommCon®, the leading symposium for wine, beer, and spirits professionals, has officially announced its return to the vibrant city of San Diego, California. Scheduled from October 5-7, 2024, at the Town & Country Resort, this preeminent event is gearing up to offer an unparalleled immersive experience into the world of beverage. Having established a strong community of beverage trailblazers over nearly a decade, SommCon® presents an unmatched platform for on- and off-premise buyers, wholesalers, importers, distributors, sommeliers, beverage directors, educators, and media.
The 2024 conference promises over 30 workshops and master classes across six diverse tracks, including Advanced Tasting Techniques, Beer & Spirits, Climate & Sustainability, Financial Acumen & Business Management, Professional Development, and Regional Explorations. These sessions are designed to foster both personal and professional growth in the beverage industry.
With a notable increase in attendance and brand participation in the previous year, the SommCon Beverage Expo returns with a robust marketplace. This segment of the event will connect over 1,000 on- and off-premise buyers, importers, and distributors with domestic and international producers. The trade show is set to feature innovation zones and educational stages, a Craft Producers Pavilion, facilitated buyer-supplier meetings, and showcases of 2024 Concours d’Spirits and Concours d’Vin medal winners. Additionally, the Bottle Shot Lounge will offer producers the opportunity to obtain professional product photography, enhancing their brand visibility.
Several new experiences await attendees at the 2024 Conference & Beverage Expo. A Hosted Buyer Program invites professional alcohol beverage buyers to apply for a complimentary full conference pass, including travel and accommodations. The Women in Craft Forum, hosted by the Craft Beverage Expo, will focus on the pivotal role of women in the craft beverage industry, offering a day of education centered around business development and expansion.
Furthermore, a Career Coaching & Resource Center will provide resources for those looking to advance their beverage careers. This space will include career coaching, resume workshops, mentorship, a professional headshot studio, and brand partners offering training for continuing education and certifications. Attendees can also look forward to engaging in Fun & Games, including trivia, spelling bees, and blind tasting battles, designed to foster networking in a competitive yet enjoyable atmosphere.
The BevTech Showcase will introduce cutting-edge technology brands revolutionizing the beverage industry, offering insights into the intersection of technology and the professional alcohol beverage industry. The Content & Creator Studio will provide a bespoke filming environment for brands and creators to collaborate, producing high-quality educational content, industry podcasts, and more.
The event will take place at the iconic Town & Country Resort in San Diego, a property known for its retro charm and comprehensive facilities. With newly renovated guestrooms, a resort-style pool, award-winning on-property dining, and extensive meeting and event space, the venue promises an exceptional experience for all attendees.
Registration for the SommCon Conference & Beverage Expo is now open, with details and sign-up information available on their website. As the premier gathering for professionals in the wine, beer, and spirits industry, SommCon® offers unparalleled opportunities for education, networking, and career development.
SommCon® is a trademark of Fast Forward, an event production house specializing in consumer and business events in wine, beer, spirits, culinary, and hospitality. The conference and expo are produced in partnership with The SOMM Journal, featuring the Concours d’Spirits and Concours d’Vin competitions, and SommGo, an on-demand streaming service with educational content for the global wine, beer, and spirits industry.
As the beverage industry continues to evolve, SommCon® remains at the forefront, providing a dynamic platform for learning, growth, and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, the 2024 conference and expo promise to be an invaluable experience for all who attend.
