The alcoholic beverage industry is navigating significant shifts in 2026. Alcohol companies are filing for or contemplating bankruptcy, antitrust enforcement actions continue, and new federal challenges face the growing hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) industry. Organizations will face both challenges and opportunities as the new year gets under way.

Our cross-practice team discussed these key developments and explored practical strategies for the year ahead.

Discussion topics included: 

• Federal and state regulatory and enforcement updates
• The evolving hemp-derived THC beverage landscape and potential federal framework
• The growing presence of bankruptcy filings for alcoholic beverage companies
• The Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit against Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and its implications for the industry