BETHESDA, MD & NEW YORK, NY – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) and the Metropolitan Package Store Association (Metro) today announced that Metro has joined ABL as an Affiliate Member, strengthening the national voice of independent beverage alcohol retailers and expanding the reach of both organizations in advocating for their members.
The partnership will connect Metro’s network of New York City-area package store owners with ABL’s national resources, policy expertise, and industry connections, while providing ABL with deeper insight into the unique challenges and opportunities facing retailers in one of the most dynamic markets in the country.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Metropolitan Package Store Association to the ABL family,” said John Bodnovich, Executive Director of ABL. “Metro’s experience and strong advocacy on behalf of the New York City area’s independent package store owners will enhance our collective efforts to protect and promote the interests of beverage alcohol retailers nationwide. Together, we will be an even stronger voice for the responsible, independent businesses that form the backbone of this industry.”
Founded in 1934, Metro represents hundreds of locally owned and operated package stores across New York City’s five boroughs and surrounding counties. Metro represents the political and business interests of “mom and pop” liquor stores across New York State, including leading several campaigns in support of New York wineries and distilleries, promoting New York wines and spirits in retail package stores, and fighting for retailer interests under the three-tier system and public convenience and advantage licensing statutes. As an ABL Affiliate Member, Metro will participate in national policy discussions, share best practices, and collaborate with other state and regional associations to address shared priorities.
“Joining ABL as an Affiliate Member is a natural step for Metro as we continue to advocate for our members in a rapidly changing retail environment,” said Michael Correra, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Package Store Association. “This partnership gives our members a stronger voice at the national level and ensures that the concerns of New York beverage alcohol retailers are heard and addressed alongside those of our peers across the country.”
Metro joins the New York State Liquors Store Association and Retailers Alliance of New York – with whom it works closely in Albany – as ABL affiliate members, further strengthening Empire State retailers’ representation on the ABL Board of Directors.
“We’re excited to work with Michael and Metro members to preserve market access for independent retailers, support responsible sales and consumption of beverage alcohol, and foster collaboration within the three-tier system,” said Bodnovich.
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