Frequently Asked Questions

Q: DO YOU REPRESENT OTHER PROVINCES?
A: No, the IVSA is specific to Alberta and British Columbia. However the number of regional offices and head offices in these provinces make this a strong clearing house of information for the Canadian market.

Q: WHAT IS THE NEW PRODUCT SALON?
A: Our New Product Salon is our most popular service. A venue is reserved and IVSA members are invited to book a table and show new listings to the hospitality trade. The trade includes wine writers, public liquor store employees, hotel , restaurant, beer & wine stores, private wine stores, clubs and wine organizations. It does not include the general public. This is a very cost-effective way to show your new products to a large number of potential customers.

Q: WHEN CAN WE PARTICIPATE IN THE NEW PRODUCT SALON?
A: Once the IVSA office has received your membership fee and it has been deposited, you may participate in the IVSA new product salon. The popularity of the new product salon means that tables are booked on a first-come, first-served basis and it is a good idea to book a table earlier rather than later. Agents must have received accreditation through either BC's "Serving it Right" or Alberta's "Proserve" Program.

Q: CAN WE SHOW CANADIAN PRODUCTS?
A: No. The IVSA represents and promotes Import products exclusively. There are numerous other venues for showing Canadian wines and domestic products.

Q: CAN WE SHOW BEER OR NON-WINE PRODUCTS?
A: Yes. As long as the products are new and imported they qualify to be shown at the IVSA New Product Salon by registered members.