Uncorking Opportunities: Your Guide to the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show, San Francisco, USA!

San Francisco – a city celebrated for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and proximity to some of the world’s most renowned wine regions. It’s here, in this hub of innovation and commerce, that a specialized, yet incredibly powerful segment of the beverage industry converges: the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show (IBWSS). This isn’t your typical consumer wine tasting; it’s a meticulously curated business-to-business (B2B) trade show and conference designed specifically for professionals involved in the sourcing, production, and distribution of bulk wine, bulk spirits, private label programs, and contract bottling. Imagine stepping into a focused marketplace, where deals are struck, partnerships are forged, and the future of your wine or spirits brand is shaped by direct access to global supply. For wineries, distilleries, importers, distributors, retailers, and anyone navigating the complex world of private label and bulk sourcing, IBWSS is an indispensable event. It’s the ultimate platform to streamline your supply chain, expand your product offerings, control costs, and capitalize on the growing demand for custom and branded solutions in today’s dynamic beverage market.

The global wine and spirits industries are experiencing significant shifts. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique, authentic, and value-driven products, leading to a surge in demand for private label brands and efficient bulk sourcing. Producers are looking for ways to manage inventory, optimize production, and expand their reach without significant capital investment. IBWSS stands at the forefront of these trends, connecting the dots between supply and demand, unveiling new market insights, and fostering crucial relationships. It’s where a small winery can find the perfect bulk wine to expand its portfolio, where a large retailer can develop an exclusive private label line, and where contract bottlers connect with producers. If you’re aiming to understand the economics of bulk, navigate international trade policies, discover new grape varieties or spirit profiles, or simply find the right partners to scale your business, attending IBWSS offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, strategize, and truly define the future of your wine and spirits enterprise.

The Bay Area’s Business Hub: Venue and Time

The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show strategically selects a convenient and accessible venue in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, ensuring a focused and productive experience for trade professionals.

South San Francisco’s Premier Center: The Venue The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show (IBWSS) USA is consistently held at the South San Francisco Conference Center in South San Francisco, California, USA. The address for the South San Francisco Conference Center is 255 South Airport Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA 94080. This venue is ideally located just south of San Francisco proper, offering excellent accessibility from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and major freeways. Its proximity to a multitude of hotel options and its dedicated exhibition spaces make it an efficient and practical choice for a specialized B2B event like IBWSS. The facility is well-equipped to host the trade show floor, conference sessions, and networking functions under one roof.

A Summer Harvest of Opportunities: The Schedule The IBWSS is an annual event, consistently taking place in late July. This strategic timing allows industry professionals to gather mid-year, providing an ideal opportunity to assess current market conditions, plan for year-end inventory, and strategize for the upcoming year’s production and sales cycles.

For 2025, the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show is scheduled to run from Tuesday, July 29, 2025 – Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

The event typically spans two intense days, with a meticulously designed schedule to maximize discovery, education, and networking opportunities:

• Show Floor Hours: Generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the first day, and from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on the second day. These dedicated hours provide ample time for buyers to meet with exhibitors, sample products, and discuss potential deals.
• Conference Program: A key component of IBWSS is its robust, multi-track conference program. For 2025, the theme is “The New Economics of Wine & Spirits: Supply Chains, Tariffs, Consumer Shifts.” This program features over 20 speakers, including a mix of keynote addresses and expert panel discussions. Topics typically cover:
  • Global supply chain dynamics and logistics.
  • Impact of tariffs and trade policies.
  • Evolving consumer preferences and buying habits.
  • Strategies for building successful private label brands.
  • Contract manufacturing best practices.
  • Sustainability in bulk wine and spirits.
  • Market trends and data analysis.
  • Quality control and provenance in bulk sourcing.
• Networking Opportunities: The entire show environment is designed for active networking. Attendees can connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential suppliers directly on the trade show floor. IBWSS also typically includes exclusive networking events, such as a complimentary cocktail party for conference attendees, providing a relaxed setting for further business discussions.
• Tasting Tables: Exhibitors provide tasting opportunities directly at their booths, allowing buyers to evaluate the quality and characteristics of bulk wines and spirits on offer.
• Educational Workshops: Beyond the main conference, there are often practical workshops and masterclasses focused on specific aspects of the bulk and private label business.

This comprehensive and focused schedule ensures that every attendee, from an experienced bulk buyer to a new brand looking to enter the private label market, finds valuable content and connections to propel their wine and spirits business forward.

From Vine to Bottle: Key Product and Service Categories

The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show offers an incredibly comprehensive range of products and services specifically tailored to the bulk wine, bulk spirits, and private label sectors. This is not about branded consumer products, but rather the essential components and services that underpin their creation. Key categories typically featured include:

• Bulk Wine:
  • Red, white, and rosé wines from various vintages, varietals, and regions around the world (e.g., California, Washington, Oregon, Chile, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, Spain).
  • Specific appellations, generic wines, and unclassified bulk wines.
  • Organic, biodynamic, and sustainably produced bulk wines.
• Bulk Spirits:
  • Whiskey (Bourbon, Rye, Scotch, Irish, Canadian, Japanese).
  • Vodka, Gin, Rum.
  • Tequila & Mezcal.
  • Brandy & Cognac.
  • Specialty spirits and emerging categories.
  • Neutral grain spirits (NGS).
• Private Label Programs:
  • Companies offering end-to-end private label services, from concept development and blend creation to bottling and packaging design.
  • Retail chains looking for partners to develop their own exclusive wine and spirits brands.
• Contract Bottling & Packaging:
  • Bottling facilities capable of handling various volumes and package types (glass bottles, cans, bag-in-box, pouches).
  • Co-packing services for both wine and spirits.
  • Packaging design services, label printing, closures, and logistics solutions specific to beverage transportation.
• Custom Crush & Winemaking Services:
  • Wineries offering their facilities and expertise for custom winemaking, from grape reception through fermentation, aging, and blending.
• Grape Growers & Vintners Associations:
  • Growers looking to sell grapes in bulk.
  • Regional associations promoting grape and wine production.
• Bulk Logistics & Supply Chain Solutions:
  • Shipping and freight companies specializing in bulk liquid transport (flexitanks, ISO tanks, tanker trucks).
  • Warehousing and storage solutions.
  • Compliance and import/export services.
• Consulting & Brokerage Services:
  • Bulk wine and spirits brokers facilitating transactions.
  • Industry consultants specializing in private label development, market entry, and supply chain optimization.
• Inventory Management & Excess Stock:
  • Wineries and distilleries with one-time excess inventory looking for buyers.

This incredibly specialized yet diverse range ensures that any professional looking to buy, sell, or facilitate the movement of bulk wine and spirits, or to develop private label programs, can find the right partners and solutions to meet their business objectives.

The Connective Tissue of the Industry: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show consistently attracts a targeted and highly relevant audience, reflecting its unique position as the leading B2B event for bulk and private label in North America.

• Visitor Count: IBWSS is a highly focused trade-only event, meaning attendance is strictly for industry professionals. While exact real-time visitor numbers for 2025 will be confirmed post-event, previous editions have seen a significant and growing number of attendees. For 2025, the expectation is for thousands of highly qualified trade professionals to attend. The attendee base includes:
  • Wineries & Distilleries (seeking to buy or sell bulk, looking for contract services).
  • Importers & Exporters.
  • Distributors & Wholesalers.
  • Retail Chains & Grocery Buyers (with a strong focus on private label).
  • Negociants & Brokers.
  • Contract Bottlers & Co-packers.
  • Supply Chain & Logistics Providers.
  • Marketing & Branding Agencies.
  • Investors and Industry Analysts. The show’s global reach is notable, drawing participants from numerous countries, eager to conduct business in the North American market.
• Exhibitor Count: IBWSS consistently features a substantial and diverse group of suppliers. For 2025, there are expected to be over 100 international and domestic exhibitors showcasing their offerings. These exhibitors include:
  • Wineries and distilleries looking to sell bulk wine and spirits.
  • Producers and negociants offering private label programs and contract manufacturing services.
  • Grape growers and custom crush facilities.
  • Logistics and packaging solution providers. The exhibit floor is designed to facilitate direct conversations and deal-making, with a strong emphasis on practical business opportunities.

The intimate yet impactful setting, combined with the highly specific focus on bulk and private label, ensures that both exhibitors and visitors are highly motivated to engage in meaningful business discussions and forge lucrative partnerships.

The Competitive Edge: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show is a strategic imperative for any professional looking to gain a competitive advantage in the bulk and private label segments of the wine and spirits industry.

• Direct Sourcing & Sales Opportunities: This is the only place in North America where you can directly connect with a concentrated group of global suppliers and buyers of bulk wine and spirits under one roof. Whether you need to source specific varietals or spirits, or you have excess inventory to move, the show floor is a powerful marketplace.
• Unlock Private Label Potential: Gain unparalleled access to producers and service providers specializing in private label development. Learn how to launch your own profitable private label brand, from concept to bottling, and meet partners who can execute your vision.
• Cutting-Edge Market Insights: The comprehensive conference program offers invaluable knowledge on “The New Economics of Wine & Spirits.” Hear directly from industry leaders and experts on critical topics like supply chain resilience, the impact of tariffs, and evolving consumer purchasing behaviors. These insights are essential for strategic planning.
• Strategic Networking: Connect with a highly targeted audience of industry peers, decision-makers, and potential collaborators from across the globe. The show fosters an environment conducive to building strong, lasting business relationships, enhanced by dedicated networking events like the cocktail party.
• Cost Optimization & Efficiency: Discover how leveraging bulk wine and spirits and private label programs can significantly reduce production costs, manage inventory more effectively, and improve your bottom line, especially for retailers and larger brands.
• Explore Contract Bottling & Manufacturing: Find reliable partners for contract bottling and custom manufacturing. This is crucial for brands looking to scale production without major capital expenditure or for those needing specialized services.
• Diverse Product Exploration: Sample and evaluate a vast array of bulk wines (from a multitude of regions and varietals) and spirits (whiskey, gin, vodka, rum, tequila, etc.), ensuring you find the exact profiles and quality levels to meet your brand’s specifications.
• Problem-Solving & Solutions: Engage with logistics providers, packaging experts, and compliance specialists who can offer tangible solutions to your supply chain challenges, ensuring smooth operations from vineyard/distillery to shelf.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: The bulk and private label markets are dynamic. Attending IBWSS ensures you are updated on the latest trends, regulatory changes, and emerging opportunities, allowing you to adapt your business strategy proactively.
• A Valuable Investment: With an “Expo Only” pass being highly affordable and a “Conference + Expo” pass providing exceptional value, the return on investment in terms of deals made and knowledge gained is often significant.

Your San Francisco Base: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

The South San Francisco Conference Center area offers a good selection of hotels, particularly those catering to business travelers and airport proximity. Many attendees also opt to stay in downtown San Francisco for a broader range of dining and entertainment, commuting to the show.

• Near the South San Francisco Conference Center (South San Francisco): These hotels offer the utmost convenience for show access, often just a few minutes’ drive or a short walk (depending on the exact hotel). They are typically well-suited for business travelers.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport – Waterfront: Often a popular choice due to its amenities and proximity.
  • Holiday Inn Express San Francisco-Airport South, an IHG Hotel
  • Staybridge Suites San Francisco Airport South, an IHG Hotel
  • Larkspur Landing South San Francisco – An All-Suite Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton San Francisco Airport
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport-North
  • Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Airport/Oyster Point Waterfront These hotels typically offer shuttle services to SFO and are close to dining options in South San Francisco.
• San Francisco City (Downtown/Union Square/SOMA): For attendees who prefer to combine the Expo with exploring San Francisco’s attractions, staying in the city is a popular option. While a short drive or taxi/rideshare away (typically 15-30 minutes depending on traffic), these areas offer a vast array of hotels, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Examples include:
  • Hilton San Francisco Union Square
  • San Francisco Marriott Marquis
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco
  • The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square
  • Hotel Nikko San Francisco
• Official Accommodation: It is always advisable to check the official IBWSS website for any recommended hotels or official housing partners. Booking through official channels can sometimes offer discounted rates or special benefits for attendees.

Given the show’s focus and location, many attendees prioritize convenience to the venue, making the South San Francisco hotels a practical choice. However, for those looking to experience more of San Francisco, staying in the city center is easily manageable. Booking in advance is always recommended, especially for a key industry event.

The Barrel of Value: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show is a targeted investment that can yield significant returns for businesses in the bulk and private label sectors. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for the 2025 event:

• Expo Only Pass: This pass grants access to the main trade show floor for both days, allowing you to meet exhibitors and explore products.
  • Price: For 2025, the “Expo Only” pass is listed at $39 USD. This makes it an incredibly accessible entry point for trade professionals.
• Conference + Expo Pass: This is the most comprehensive pass, providing full access to the exhibit floor, all the educational conference sessions (including keynotes and expert panels), and typically includes access to exclusive networking events like the cocktail party.
  • Price: For 2025, the “Conference + Expo” pass is listed at $249 USD. This offers significant value given the depth of insights provided by the speakers.
• Non-Exhibiting Supplier/Vendor Policy: IBWSS is strictly a trade show for bulk and private label. If you are a supplier to the industry but are not exhibiting, there is typically a significantly higher fee to access the show floor. This policy is in place to ensure a focused B2B environment and encourage relevant companies to exhibit if their primary goal is to sell products or services.

These fees cover access to the show itself. Attendees should also budget for personal travel (flights/transport), accommodation, and dining expenses in the San Francisco Bay Area. For the unparalleled opportunity to directly source products, forge critical partnerships, gain expert market insights, and optimize your supply chain in the bulk wine and spirits industry, the return on this investment is considered substantial and often critical for operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

Cheers to Your Success: Your Journey to Bulk & Private Label Mastery Begins Here!

The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show is more than just a trade fair; it’s the definitive North American nexus for the bulk wine, bulk spirits, and private label industries. It’s a powerful and precise convergence of global supply and demand, designed to foster strategic relationships and unlock immense commercial opportunities. It’s where raw materials transform into profitable ventures, where private label dreams become reality, and where the most efficient routes to market are discovered. Whether you are a large-scale winery or distillery looking to optimize inventory, a growing brand seeking contract production, or a retail chain aiming to launch exclusive, high-margin private label products, attending IBWSS is an essential experience that will refine your strategy, expand your network, and empower you to lead in this highly specialized and rapidly expanding segment of the beverage alcohol market. Don’t just watch the market evolve; shape it, source wisely, and grow your brand with confidence!

To learn more about the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show and to secure your pass for the next event, visit: ibwsshow.com