The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is the trade body for the Scotch Whisky industry. Its role is to advance the global interests and profile of Scotch Whisky, our members and of the industry as a whole. SWA membership is for companies which are distillers, bottlers, brand owners or brokers of Scotch Whisky. We see the Scotch whisky industry as a significant Scottish and British economic and cultural asset that boosts growth and jobs, that strongly supports the communities with which we work, and that combines the very best of the traditional and the modern. By building strong relationships with all levels of government and opinion-formers and by making a visible impact on public debate we will: • Be a trusted voice in the debate on alcohol and society • Support a competitive, sustainable and fairly taxed industry • Safeguard the Scotch Whisky category • Ensure fair access to all markets worldwide. The SWA can trace its origins back to October 1912. The original organisation, the Wine & Spirit Brand Association changed its name to the Whisky Association in 1917 which in turn became the SWA in 1940.