American Beverage Licensees Annual Meeting Draws Retailers from Across the Nation

Posted on by abladmin

Beverage Retailers Gather for Industry Insights, Policy Updates, and Networking

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) proudly hosted its 2025 Annual Meeting on July 26-28 in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together independent beverage alcohol retailers from across the country.  Attendees explored critical industry trends, engaged with policy and economic updates, and connected with colleagues, suppliers, and industry partners.

“Each year, the ABL Annual Meeting serves as a powerful reminder of the value and strength of America’s independent beverage licensees,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.  “This year’s gathering in San Antonio carried that tradition forward—bringing together passionate and committed bar, tavern, and package liquor store owners who play a vital role in their communities and in the responsible sale of beverage alcohol.”

The meeting featured a robust program of speakers and presentations from leading voices in beverage alcohol policy, regulation, and business. Mark Brown, Executive Chairman of Sazerac Company, delivered a keynote address to a joint session of ABL members and members of the Texas Package Stores Association (TPSA), whose convention and trade show ran concurrently in San Antonio.  Attendees also heard from Diana Eberlein, the Chair of the Coalition for Adult Beverage Alternatives, who shared insights on policies and market developments for THC-infused beverages.

Industry experts Harry Schuhmacher of Beer Business Daily and Sarah Barrett of Wine & Spirits Daily provided timely analysis of market trends, retail challenges, and shifting consumer preferences.  Andrew Heritage, Chief Economist for the Beer Institute, shared an in-depth look at the current state of the beverage alcohol sector, highlighting key indicators and trends to watch. Jim Grandahl from DirecTV Business discussed the evolving role of streaming sports, music, and other content in commercial venues.

Beyond the educational programming, attendees enjoyed lively networking opportunities, including the ABL Brand Showcase, featuring products from 30 suppliers, and access to the expansive TPSA Trade Show, which hosted hundreds of exhibitors and tastings. ABL also posthumously honored the late Sir Ivan Menezes, former CEO of Diageo, with the 2025 ABL Top Shelf Award in recognition of his lasting contributions to the global beverage alcohol industry.

During its Board of Directors meeting, ABL elected officers to two-year terms:

  • Mat Dinsmore (Wilbur’s Total Beverage, Fort Collins, CO) – Treasurer (re-elected)
  • Ryan Maloney (Julio’s Liquors, Westborough, MA) – Vice President, Off-Premise
  • Peter Gwizdala (Crazy Times, Machesney Park, IL) – Vice President, On-Premise
  • Kevin Storm (Frederick Wine House, Frederick, MD) – At-Large Representative

 

The conference also celebrated the 2025 ABL Retailers of the Year, recognizing licensees who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovative business practices, and deep community engagement.

“These outstanding retailers embody the best of what it means to be a beverage alcohol licensee,” said Bodnovich. “Through their hard work, creativity, and commitment to their customers and communities, they not only grow their own businesses but also elevate the entire industry. They are essential to the fabric of Main Street and the success of the marketplace. ABL is honored to celebrate their achievements.”

The 2025 ABL Retailers of the Year are:

  • Madison & Kian Khanifar | The Red Shed | Tuscaloosa, AL
  • Ranjeev Acharya | J&A Package Store | Thomasville, AL
  • Mihir Patel & Rocky Patel | 21 Package Store | Covington, GA
  • Paul Jeziorski | Paul’s Place | Kankakee, IL
  • Tony Abrams | Bob-O-Link Liquor | Rushville, IN
  • Pete Triantafilos| Costas Inn | Baltimore, MD
  • Ashok Kavi | The Liquor Store | Waldorf, MD
  • Andrea Pendergast | Cape Cod Package Store | Centerville, MA
  • Paul Santelle| Garden State Discount Liquors | Perth Amboy, NJ
  • Gavin Reynolds | GCP Discount Liquors & Wines | Horseheads, NY
  • Matt Yaeger| Pinnacle Wine & Liquor | Brighton, NY
  • Jane Costanza | Wakefield Liquors | Wakefield, RI
  • David Osbon | Harbor View Spirits | Charleston, SC
  • Brooke Porter | Market Basket Wine & Liquor | Lebanon, TN
  • Edward & Sharon LaGrange | The Shot Glass | Pleasanton, TX
  • Wayne Machut | Rita’s Supper Club | Two Rivers, WI
  • Tim Barnes | Black Tooth Brewing Company | Sheridan, WY

 

Planning for the 2026 ABL Annual Meeting is underway.  For updates visit www.ablusa.org.