Home » Rob Samuels to keynote 2017 Kentucky International Trade Summit on Oct. 20

Rob Samuels to keynote 2017 Kentucky International Trade Summit on Oct. 20

Rob Samuels, COO of Maker's Mark
Rob Samuels, COO of Maker’s Mark

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 15, 2017) — The World Trade Center Kentucky (WTC-KY) has announced that the 2017 Kentucky International Trade Summit keynote speaker will be Rob Samuels, chief operating officer of Maker’s Mark.

The Kentucky International Trade Summit will be held on Friday, Oct. 20 at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Ky. Tickets are available at www.kyinternationaltradesummit.com.

“Rob Samuels brings the enthusiasm and spirit to Maker’s Mark that his father did over 40 years ago,” said WTC-KY Chairman John McPhearson.

Samuels’ keynote, “The Growing Landscape of the Global Spirits Industry,” will address the international bourbon-boom the industry has experienced and its growing impact on Kentucky’s global brand.

“The Kentucky bourbon industry has added $1 billion to the state economy–as well as 2,000 jobs – and continues to expand,” said WTC-KY President & CEO Ed Webb. “The industry is experiencing exponential growth well outside the borders of the commonwealth and we think there is much to be learned and duplicated from the success in this sector, which includes not only jobs for our citizens, but also brings innovation and investment to Kentucky.”

The Trade Summit theme – Straight Up: The International Bourbon Industry – will highlight the global brand recognition of Kentucky’s favorite beverage.

“This year’s summit is a break from our traditional setup and I know that Samuels, being a known innovator in the industry, is the perfect person to headline this event,” said WTC-KY Vice President – International Education Center Mark Peachey.

The International Trade Summit is the region’s largest gathering of international trade professionals. The roundtable discussions will offer the opportunity for one-on-one dialogue with trade representatives from around the world and meet with trade representatives from around the world. Attendees will network and learn how their peers are succeeding in business and international trade.

This year’s event will include a trade exhibit hall, educational breakout sessions on trade topics, commentary from high level industry professionals, a luncheon networking reception and keynote address, along with the Martha Layne Collins international trade recognition and awards.