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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BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) issued the following statement after President Donald J. Trump announced his support today for the bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act:

“America’s beer, wine and spirits retailers thank President Donald Trump for his support of the Credit Card Competition Act and for highlighting the need to rein in excessive credit card fees that burden Main Street businesses.  This commonsense legislation will help local bars, taverns, liquor stores, and consumers across America by increasing competition in the credit card network market and helping to reduce runaway swipe fees that raise costs on small businesses and everyday Americans.  ABL urges Congress to take swift action and pass the bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act to deliver real relief for small businesses and consumers alike.”

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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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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.

Speakers & Industry Sessions Highlight Event for Beverage Alcohol Retailers

June 6, 2025 – BETHESDA, MD – Momentum is building for the 2025 ABL Annual Meeting, set to take place July 26–28, 2025 at the Kimpton Santo Hotel in San Antonio, Texas.  With more speakers announced and networking hospitality events featuring a wide range of industry products, beverage licensees from across the country are encouraged to make plans now to join ABL and their industry colleagues for the year’s most important event focused on independent alcohol retailers.

Industry-leading speakers and timely sessions will offer valuable insights into the key issues facing on- and off-premise alcohol retailers. Highlights include:

• “Changes, Threats & Opportunities: The Evolving Beverage Alcohol Industry” featuring Mark Brown, Executive Chairman of Sazerac Company
• “THC Beverages in Focus: Trends, Policy & Retail Impacts” featuring Diana Eberlein, Chair of the Coalition for Adult Beverage Alternatives
• “Streaming Smarts: Navigating Live Sports and Entertainment in Your Business” featuring Jim Grandahl, head of National Accounts for DIRECTV Business
• “Navigating Headwinds in a Shifting Economic Climate” featuring Andrew Heritage, Chief Economist for the Beer Institute
• “Beverage Retailers Policy Outlook” featuring ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich

Additional speakers will be announced soon, adding more valuable content to the program for attendees.

In addition to ABL Annual Meeting events and hospitality, attendees are also invited to participate in the Texas Package Stores Association (TPSA) Trade Show and other hospitality events taking place as part of the 78th Annual TPSA Convention & Trade Show including the Cork Pull and AfterGlow Party.

Registration is open now through July 21, 2025.

Attendees can book their accommodations at the Kimpton Santo Hotel at a nightly rate of $239 + applicable taxes and fees. ABL’s room block is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. The room block is scheduled to close on June 25, 2025.

For the latest updates and information on the 2025 ABL Annual Meeting, please visit www.ablusa.org.

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Bars & Taverns Drive Economic Activity, Support Local Communities, and Advocate for Pro-Growth Policies

BETHESDA, MD – As the calendar turns to May, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) proudly kicks off Tavern Month, celebrating the key role that bars and taverns play in communities across the country.  From creating jobs and generating tax revenue, to sponsoring youth sports teams and local charities, to serving as welcoming “third places” for social connection, neighborhood bars and taverns are integral to the fabric of American life.

“Taverns and bars are more than places to enjoy a drink—they are cornerstones of economic opportunity and community engagement,” said John Bodnovich, Executive Director of ABL.  “Whether in big cities or small towns, these establishments provide a safe and welcoming place for people to gather, celebrate, and connect.  As we celebrate Tavern Month this May, we have an opportunity to recognize the entrepreneurial spirit of bar owners and the important work they do to advocate for policies that support their businesses and the communities they serve.”

Across the United States, on-premise alcohol sales directly create over 1.14 million jobs generating over $33.7 billion in wages and $88.3 billion in direct economic impact.  Many of these independently owned bars and taverns are passed down from generation to generation, representing the very essence of America’s small business backbone.

“In communities from coast to coast, taverns are pillars of connection and culture,” said Bobby Greenawalt, ABL Board President. “They create a sense of belonging, support local economies, and foster civic pride.  Tavern Month is a chance to recognize not only their economic impact, but also the human connections they make possible.”

Tavern Month also highlights the policy challenges and opportunities that bar and tavern owners face in today’s business and legislative environment.  As small business owners, they continue to adapt to evolving consumer habits, regulatory changes, and economic pressures.  ABL and its state affiliates remain at the forefront of advocacy efforts on behalf of these entrepreneurs.

Through their state associations and ABL, bar and tavern owners remain organized and active voices in state legislatures and in Washington, D.C.  Whether testifying at hearings, engaging with lawmakers, or sharing stories of how their businesses impact real people in real communities, these small business owners are committed to fighting for their livelihoods and those of their employees.

Among the top priorities for bar and tavern owners this year:

• Business Certainty Through Tax Policy: Beverage licensees are urging Congress to pass tax legislation that will provide long-term business clarity for pass-through companies so they can invest and grow by avoiding tax policy volatility.

 

• Credit Card Network Competition: ABL supports the Credit Card Competition Act that would increase competition among credit card networks, helping to reduce $187 billion in swipe fees that hit merchants and their customers.

 

• Transparency and Fairness in Music Licensing: Many on-premise beverage establishments use music to create an inviting environment. The increasing complexity, cost, and confusion surrounding public performance rights have created significant challenges that require thoughtful reform and a renewed focus on fairness and clarity.

 

• Following Science Over Bias: Members of Congress, ABL and other beverage alcohol industry groups have raised numerous concerns about the process for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans review on alcohol. Licensees continue to call for an alcohol review process that is transparent, deliberative, science-driven, and results in guidance grounded in the preponderance of scientific and medical knowledge as required by law.

 

Bars and taverns are also crucial entry points for innovation in the beverage industry, which in some states includes hemp-derived THC beverages.  Recognizing consumer demand for new regulated products, licensed beverage retailers can serve as trusted and experienced experts who legislators, regulators and consumers can rely on as they evaluate regulatory options that best fit their state.  With their long-standing compliance history in the sale and service of age-restricted products, beverage licensees are uniquely positioned to handle products responsibly and in accordance with evolving state laws.

This May, as Americans raise a glass to celebrate graduations, weddings, sporting events and life’s milestones, ABL encourages everyone to do so responsibly—and to support the local bars and taverns that make those memories possible.

“Tavern Month is about celebrating what these establishments mean to people,” added Bodnovich. “We invite all Americans to stop by their neighborhood bar, thank the owners and staff, and recognize the important role they play—not just in pouring drinks, but in pouring into the heart of our communities.”

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Registration Now Open for Event at Kimpton Santo Hotel

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) will hold the 2025 ABL Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas on July 26-28, 2025. Registration is now open for the event, which will take place at the Kimpton Santo Hotel, one of San Antonio’s newest and most stylish downtown hotels. In addition to ABL Annual Meeting events and hospitality, attendees are also invited to participate in the Texas Package Stores Association (TPSA) Trade Show and other hospitality events taking place as part of the 78th Annual TPSA Convention & Trade Show.

“San Antonio was a fantastic host in 2024, and we’re thrilled to return in 2025 for another exciting Annual Meeting,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “This year’s meeting will once again provide attendees with valuable insights, important policy discussions, and dynamic networking opportunities—with the added benefit of collaborating with TPSA for an even more enriching experience.”

The ABL Annual Meeting will continue to explore current trends in alcohol policy and regulation, as well as developments in the ever-evolving alcohol marketplace. Top practitioners and experts from across the beverage alcohol industry will share their knowledge and perspectives on key issues for independent beverage licensees.

Previous meetings have featured sessions on changes to alcohol laws, THC policy, inflation and the economy, alcohol law enforcement, and much more. The meeting aims to equip attendees with new ideas and resources to strengthen their businesses and advocacy efforts back home.

Registered ABL attendees are invited to join TPSA at events throughout the weekend, including the Cork Pull, Trade Show, and AfterGlow Party. ABL and TPSA are also partnering on a joint General Session on Monday, July 28, which will feature engaging speakers leading into the popular ABL Brand Showcase that afternoon.  Registration is open now through July 21, 2025.

With the meeting taking place in the heart of San Antonio, just steps from the River Walk and the Alamo, ABL registrants will be able to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, in addition to a full slate of educational and hospitality events.

Attendees can book their accommodations at the Kimpton Santo Hotel at a nightly rate of $239 + applicable taxes and fees. ABL’s room block is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. The room block is scheduled to close on June 25, 2025.

Additional information – including speaker announcements, sponsorship opportunities, and detailed event schedules – will be released in the coming weeks. For the latest updates and information on the 2025 ABL Annual Meeting, please visit www.ablusa.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                         

April 3, 2025

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL), whose members include bar, tavern and package liquor store owners in state alcohol markets across the country, today published a policy memo addressing state regulation of intoxicating THC products. 

The memo and its policy considerations serve as an acknowledgement by the independent retail beverage alcohol community of already existing and growing markets for these products, and a recommendation that states should “draw upon the proven structures and practices used to regulate beverage alcohol” when crafting effective state regulation of intoxicating THC products.

Key regulatory principles included in the memo address place of sale; regulation similar to beverage alcohol; product testing and safety; taxation; enforcement; and insurance and financial services for retailers.

Policy language in the memo was crafted in consultation with ABL members who, as beverage alcohol licensees, have many decades of proven compliance selling age-restricted intoxicating products as state-licensed businesses in state-regulated markets.

“With the passage of the federal farm bill in 2018 and the reality of growing markets for intoxicating THC products, states are increasingly compelled to develop comprehensive state regulatory frameworks for intoxicating THC products,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.  “Given their considerable experience with beverage alcohol regulation, beverage alcohol retailers are best positioned to not only sell these products, but also to provide practical advice to states on how to implement a robust regulatory model that inherently balances public safety, business interests, and consumer access.”

Link: ABL Policy Memo: State Regulation of Intoxicating THC Products

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American Beverage Licensees (ABL) Policy Memo: State Regulation of Intoxicating THC Products

Introduction

As the intoxicating THC product market continues to grow, states face significant challenges in developing regulatory framework that ensures public safety and maintains consumer confidence. American Beverage Licensees (ABL), comprised of members with decades of practical experience selling age-restricted beverage alcohol products, believes that effective state regulation of intoxicating THC products should draw upon the proven structures and practices used to regulate beverage alcohol. This document outlines key regulatory considerations for intoxicating THC products and serves as a guide for policymakers and stakeholders.

Key Regulatory Principles

• Place of Sale

States should restrict the sale of intoxicating THC products to businesses licensed to sell beverage alcohol and that are regularly inspected for compliance with laws aimed at preventing sales to individuals under 21.

• Regulation Similar to Beverage Alcohol

Intoxicating THC products should be regulated under a framework analogous to that of beverage alcohol. This includes licensing requirements for producers, processors, distributors, and retailers; clear labeling standards; and restrictions on advertising and marketing to ensure responsible consumption. It may also include limits on potency per serving. States have considerable experience with beverage alcohol regulation, providing a robust model that inherently balances public safety, business interests, and consumer access.

• Product Testing and Safety

All intoxicating THC products should be subject to rigorous testing to confirm safety, potency, and purity. Testing should verify the absence of harmful contaminants including but not limited to heavy metals, pesticides, mold and residual solvents, and confirm THC potency to prevent unintentional harmful effects. States should require clear labeling of product contents and dosage instructions.

• Taxation

A fair and transparent tax structure should be implemented with regard to intoxicating THC products comparable to that of beverage alcohol and at levels similar to those for beverage alcohol in the state. Taxes should be levied at the production and retail levels.

• Enforcement

Enforcement mechanisms for the legal sale of intoxicating THC products should be clearly defined and consistently applied. This includes penalties for selling to underage individuals, failure to comply with testing and labeling requirements, and operating without a license. States should allocate sufficient resources to enforce these regulations.

• Insurance and Financial Services for Retailers

Retailers of intoxicating THC products face unique challenges in securing insurance and financial services due to the evolving legal landscape. States should work with financial institutions, insurance providers, and regulatory authorities to ensure that retailers have access to necessary services.

Conclusion

ABL supports comprehensive state regulatory frameworks for intoxicating THC products that prioritize public safety and align with proven alcohol regulatory models.  Beverage alcohol retailers, with many decades of proven compliance, are best positioned to sell these products. By utilizing these principles, states may ensure that these products are safely integrated into the market, benefiting consumers, businesses, and communities alike. American Beverage Licensees and its members look forward to working with policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to develop and implement effective regulations.

Introduction

As the intoxicating THC product market continues to grow, states face significant challenges in developing regulatory framework that ensures public safety and maintains consumer confidence. American Beverage Licensees (ABL), comprised of members with decades of practical experience selling age-restricted beverage alcohol products, believes that effective state regulation of intoxicating THC products should draw upon the proven structures and practices used to regulate beverage alcohol. This document outlines key regulatory considerations for intoxicating THC products and serves as a guide for policymakers and stakeholders.

Key Regulatory Principles

• Place of Sale

States should restrict the sale of intoxicating THC products to businesses licensed to sell beverage alcohol and that are regularly inspected for compliance with laws aimed at preventing sales to individuals under 21.

• Regulation Similar to Beverage Alcohol

Intoxicating THC products should be regulated under a framework analogous to that of beverage alcohol. This includes licensing requirements for producers, processors, distributors, and retailers; clear labeling standards; and restrictions on advertising and marketing to ensure responsible consumption. It may also include limits on potency per serving. States have considerable experience with beverage alcohol regulation, providing a robust model that inherently balances public safety, business interests, and consumer access.

• Product Testing and Safety

All intoxicating THC products should be subject to rigorous testing to confirm safety, potency, and purity. Testing should verify the absence of harmful contaminants including but not limited to heavy metals, pesticides, mold and residual solvents, and confirm THC potency to prevent unintentional harmful effects. States should require clear labeling of product contents and dosage instructions.

• Taxation

A fair and transparent tax structure should be implemented with regard to intoxicating THC products comparable to that of beverage alcohol and at levels similar to those for beverage alcohol in the state. Taxes should be levied at the production and retail levels.

• Enforcement

Enforcement mechanisms for the legal sale of intoxicating THC products should be clearly defined and consistently applied. This includes penalties for selling to underage individuals, failure to comply with testing and labeling requirements, and operating without a license. States should allocate sufficient resources to enforce these regulations.

• Insurance and Financial Services for Retailers

Retailers of intoxicating THC products face unique challenges in securing insurance and financial services due to the evolving legal landscape. States should work with financial institutions, insurance providers, and regulatory authorities to ensure that retailers have access to necessary services.

Conclusion

ABL supports comprehensive state regulatory frameworks for intoxicating THC products that prioritize public safety and align with proven alcohol regulatory models.  Beverage alcohol retailers, with many decades of proven compliance, are best positioned to sell these products. By utilizing these principles, states may ensure that these products are safely integrated into the market, benefiting consumers, businesses, and communities alike. American Beverage Licensees and its members look forward to working with policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to develop and implement effective regulations.

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Bethesda, MD – Today, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) joins millions across the country in celebrating Repeal Day, marking the anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition on December 5, 1933. This historic moment not only restored Americans’ right to responsibly enjoy beverage alcohol but also established the foundation for the modern, thriving beverage alcohol industry that supports numerous jobs, local economies, and communities.

“As governments, the media and the public think about the role of beverage alcohol in our society, it’s important to remember what didn’t work,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.  “Today is a great reminder that repeating the failed experiment of Prohibition would be a mistake, as would instituting ‘Prohibition-light’ policies that are out-of-step with everyday Americans’ views on beer, wine and spirits.”

The beverage alcohol industry has set an example of how fair and equitable regulation and treatment of Main Street small businesses is good for consumers.  State-based three-tier systems, balanced with measured federal oversight, have connected consumers with diverse and innovative products that make the U.S. beverage alcohol marketplace the envy of the world.

With the commemoration of Repeal Day, ABL reaffirms its commitment to protecting a safe, efficient, and consumer-oriented marketplace where its small business members can grow and thrive.  While the beverage alcohol industry has achieved remarkable success, it is imperative to remain vigilant against efforts that could undermine those achievements.

“Local beverage businesses are more than just purveyors of great products,” added Bodnovich. “They are pillars of their communities, contributing to local economies, creating jobs, and supporting responsible practices.  Repeal Day reminds us of the progress we’ve made and the importance of preserving a system that works for everyone.”

American Beverage Licensees extends its gratitude to the hardworking men and women of the beverage alcohol industry who continue to honor the legacy of Repeal Day by fostering a vibrant, competitive, and responsible marketplace.  Cheers to a bright future!

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BETHESDA, MD – With Small Business Saturday and the start of the busy holiday season, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) is encouraging everyone to recognize the important contributions of package liquor stores to local economies, communities, and responsible alcohol consumption.

With the Thanksgiving holiday kicking off the busiest time of year for the nation’s beverage alcohol retailers, the holidays provide an important opportunity to highlight the challenges and opportunities that these Main Street small businesses are working through in Washington, DC and in their home states and towns.

“Beverage retailers play an indispensable role in the economy, generating jobs, driving economic activity, and supporting their communities,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “As we recognize Package Liquor Store Month and the broader holiday season, it’s critical that Congress address key legislative priorities impacting our members.”

Among the priorities for beverage alcohol retailers is swipe fee reform, a pressing issue as credit card transaction fees remain a significant cost burden for small businesses and their customers.  ABL continues to urge Congress to pass the Credit Card Competition Act to bring transparency and competition to the payment processing system, reducing costs for retailers and consumers alike.

Additionally, beverage retailers are raising concerns about tariffs on imported alcohol products, which can lead to higher prices for businesses and consumers.  Tariffs hinder the ability of small retailers to deliver value to customers and further strain family-owned businesses already facing tight margins in an economy where consumers are as price conscious as ever.

Package liquor stores continue to serve their communities by providing a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits, while prioritizing efforts to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors.  As key components in the public safety equation in their communities, they remain vigilant in the face of efforts to dismantle regulations that ensure fair competition and a level playing field for licensed businesses, whether in statehouses or courthouses.

ABL once again salutes the outstanding efforts of package liquor store owners and their employees, who not only help make holiday gatherings memorable but also uphold their responsibility to ensure alcohol is sold safely and responsibly.

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BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) welcomed the recent dismissal of a challenge to Rhode Island law that allows local retailers to deliver alcohol but prohibits out-of-state retailers from delivering wine directly to Rhode Island consumers.

Filed by wine consumers in 2019, the case, Anvar v. Dwyer, had previously been dismissed by the U.S. District Court for Rhode Island, was appealed to the First Circuit Court before being sent back down to the District Court where it was once again dismissed, though this time at the behest of the plaintiffs.

Unlike similar complaints in other jurisdictions, Anvar did not have an out-of-state retailer as a plaintiff, relying instead on Rhode Island consumers to advance the claim.  The District Court sought arguments as to whether these Plaintiffs had standing to challenge the constitutionality of Rhode Island’s laws restricting out-of-state retailers from delivering or shipping wine to a consumer in Rhode Island, and how their preferred outcome would effectively redress their concerns.  Faced with this request, the plaintiffs moved to dismiss the case as well as a similar complaint (Barham v. Dwyer).

“The dismissal of this case in Rhode Island represents yet another failed attack on states’ Constitutional rights to implement alcohol laws,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.

“Credit in this fight goes to the local beverage alcohol industry in Rhode Island, namely ABL affiliate the Rhode Island Liquor Operators Collaborative (RILOC).  RILOC Executive Nick Fede and members worked tirelessly with their industry partners – including the Rhode Island Responsible Beverage Alcohol Coalition – and the state to reaffirm the constitutionality of Rhode Island liquor laws.”

ABL shared its perspective on the matter by jointly filing an amicus curiae brief with the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) in 2023 with the First Circuit Court, supporting the state of Rhode Island and its three-tier system laws.

This Rhode Island case, which is in the First Circuit, now joins decisions in similar cases in the 2^nd, 4^th, 5^th, 6^th and 8^th Circuit Courts that confirm the legitimacy of state alcohol laws designed to ensure public safety, revenue collection, fair competition and a vibrant marketplace for consumers.  ABL is hopeful that there will soon be additional favorable outcomes in the 3^rd Circuit (New Jersey) and 9^th Circuit (Arizona).

“Local beverage retailers have a long history of weighing-in on Constitutional challenges to state alcohol laws in jurisdictions covering nearly the entire United States,” said Bodnovich.  “While their legal advocacy has had a profound effect on preserving the Constitutionally-sound system under which alcohol is sold and regulated in the United States, they remain eager for vexatious litigation to stop so they can focus their energy and resources on serving their customers.”

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