January 23, 2026 – BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL), the national trade association representing America’s beer, wine, and spirits retailers, announced today that its 2026 ABL Annual Meeting will take place April 18–20, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky at the Omni Louisville Hotel.
The ABL Annual Meeting is the premier gathering of independent on- and off-premise beverage alcohol licensees from across the United States, offering a dynamic agenda of policy insights, industry trends and networking opportunities. The meeting traditionally brings together leading retailers as well as representatives from the wholesaler and supplier tiers of the industry, and subject-matter experts to address the most important issues facing the beverage alcohol marketplace.
“Each year, the ABL Annual Meeting provides unique perspectives, meaningful connections, and actionable information for independent beverage retailers,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “We’re excited this year to take the meeting to Louisville — a city rich with hospitality heritage and beverage industry presence.”
Annual Meeting highlights will include:
- Educational sessions on regulatory, legislative, and market developments affecting beverage alcohol retailers.
- Networking and hospitality events including an experience at the Buffalo Trace Distillery
- Opportunities to engage with industry partners from the retail beverage community.
Specific details on the program agenda and confirmed speakers will be released in the coming weeks on the ABL Annual Meeting website.
Registration for the 2026 ABL Annual Meeting is open. Accommodations at the Omni Louisville Hotel can be booked through the ABL room block on a first come, first served basis. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Attendees are encouraged to plan early for travel and accommodations as there will be many events taking place in Louisville that weekend. For the latest updates and information on the 2026 ABL Annual Meeting, please visit www.ablusa.org.
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