US Bartenders' Guild, Flair Bartenders Association Announce New Partnership

HENDERSON, NV (MAY 19, 2026) - Today, the United States Bartenders’ Guild, the national, member-led not-for-profit association of bartenders and other hospitality professionals, and the Flair Bartenders Association (FBA) jointly announce the formalization of a long-standing partnership centered on increasing education and competition avenues for bartenders across the industry.

USBG and FBA have previously collaborated on the ‘Shake It Up’ competition. In 2026, FBA provided guidance and collaboration on the inaugural United States Cocktail Championship series.

The FBA has been a long-standing heartbeat of the global flair bartending community—a place where passion, precision, and performance collide. Dedicated to fostering connection, growth, and excellence, the FBA provides a world-class stage for bartenders of all backgrounds to compete, learn, and push the boundaries of their craft.

USBG Executive Director Bo Shuff said, “We are so excited to partner with the Flair Bartending Association. Flair is a key component of the International Bartenders’ Association’s World Cocktail Championship, so USBG and FBA working together just makes sense. Flair is where the art and entertainment intersect behind the bar, and we are thrilled to be able to elevate and amplify these incredibly talented bartenders.”

FBA President Rob Husted commented, “The USBG has been a key advocate for not only the bartending profession, but also for bartenders as people. Through its educational opportunities, healthy competitions, and advocacy, it has helped elevate bartending as a long-term career choice. This aligns perfectly with the mission of the FBA.”