Our History

As Delaware Importers, Southern Wine & Spirits of Delaware was founded in 1933 as a privately held corporation by 10 prominent business people including members of the DuPont family.

In 1983 Roger Hart & Edward Stegemeier executed an LBO to purchase Delaware Importers. It was one of two acquisitions in the 70s, 80s, and 90s by a group not associated with another distributor. The company’s growth quickly accelerated.

Delaware Importers had to change with the times. We chose in 2001 to take on a strategic partner, Lester Eber, an old friend with impeccable credentials who shared our vision and passion for the business.

In November of 2007, we proudly became a member of the Southern Wine & Spirits family.