WASHINGTON, D.C., 11/05/2025 – Francis Creighton, President & CEO of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, today issued the following statement on the passing of industry leader –and titan of the wholesale tier– Vernon (Vern) Underwood Jr.:
“Over more than 30 years leading Young’s Market Company, Mr. Underwood transformed his family’s business from a regional California distributor into one of the most respected and successful wholesalers in the United States. A gifted businessman known for his integrity, strategic leadership and deep care for the people who worked alongside him, Mr. Underwood was a trusted voice in the industry. His decades of service and innovation elevated the entire beverage alcohol industry. WSWA, our Board, and members, extend heartfelt sympathy to the Underwood family, and we join the broader industry in honoring Mr. Underwood’s life and service to our community.”
In 2012, Mr. Underwood was honored with WSWA’s Lifetime Leadership Award, recognizing his profound and lasting contributions to the association and the industry it serves. As a longtime and influential WSWA member, he served in many leadership roles at the association over the years, including as a member of the WSWA Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
About Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
WSWA is the national trade association representing the distribution tier of the wine and spirits industry, dedicated to advancing the interests and independence of distributors and brokers of wine and spirits. Founded in 1943, WSWA has more than 380 member companies in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.
To learn more, please visit www.wswa.org or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.
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