The Distilled Spirits Council (DISCUS) has formed a new strategic alliance with Badass Bartender, a global network of more than 55,000 professional bartenders, aimed at supporting, promoting and unifying one of the most vital elements of the hospitality sector, the bartending trade. Badass Bartender was created by Women of the Vine & Spirits in 2020 as a private Facebook Group for women bartenders. The forum was created to share best practices, network and foster a dialogue on issues impacting the hospitality industry. The group has grown into a global collective, connecting leaders in the bartending world with opportunities that leverage skills and impacts to the hospitality industry. DISCUS and Badass Bartender will collaborate on initiatives designed to educate, engage and promote bartenders in the U.S and worldwide. These efforts will include specialized programming, events, advocacy campaigns and promotional spotlights that highlight the vital role bartenders play in shaping the spirits industry.