International Bottled Water Association | NEWS RELEASE | November 8, 2024
Alexandria, VA – The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) announced that Robert Smith, owner of Grand Springs Distributing in Alton, VA, has earned its IBWA / Shayron Barnes-Selby Advocacy Award.
The announcement was made during the association’s awards ceremony, as part of the 2024 IBWA Annual Business Conference, held in Chicago, November 4-7.
“IBWA is honored to name Robert Smith as the winner of this year’s Selby Advocacy Award. A longstanding advocate for the bottled water industry, Robert has served the association in numerous roles, including as a Regional Association Committee representative, Government Relations Committee co-chair and member, Education Committee contributor, Board member, Executive Committee member, and former IBWA chair,” said IBWA Convention Committee Co-Chair Joe Bell.
“Robert’s unwavering commitment has positioned him as a trusted voice for the industry. He has represented us both on Capitol Hill and in the states, championing the industry’s interests and educating legislators on vital bottled water issues.”
“Known for his thoughtful, effective communication, Robert is a respected mentor, readily sharing his expertise and insight to support colleagues and industry peers. His dedication goes beyond words—Robert consistently shows up to back his industry peers, both large and small, providing steadfast support.”
“It’s this combination of advocacy, mentorship, and loyalty that makes Robert Smith an exceptional Selby Advocacy Award winner.”
Mr. Smith is the seventh recipient of the IBWA / Shayron Barnes-Selby Advocacy Award. Since 1963, IBWA’s award program has been recognizing the efforts of bottled water industry professionals to advance the industry and promote healthy hydration.
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Media Contact:
Jill Culora
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The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the authoritative source of information about all types of bottled waters, including spring, mineral, purified, artesian, and sparkling. Founded in 1958, IBWA’s membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors and suppliers. IBWA is committed to working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates bottled water as a packaged food product, to set comprehensive and stringent standards for safe, high-quality bottled water products.
In addition to FDA regulations, IBWA member bottlers must adhere to the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice, which mandates additional standards and practices that in some cases are more stringent than federal and state regulations. A key feature of the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice is a mandatory annual plant inspection by an independent, third-party organization.
