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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BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) Executive Director John Bodnovich issued the following statement after today’s U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled: Breaking the Visa-Mastercard Duopoly: Bringing Competition and Lower Fees to the Credit Card System:

“Today’s Senate hearing on credit card swipe fees brought to light what beer, wine and spirits retailers around the country already know: the credit card marketplace is broken.  Small businesses and consumers are being charged ‘rip off prices’, as one Senator put it, by credit card companies that acknowledged today their profit margins – made in part off the $172 billion in swipe fees everyday Americans and local Main Street businesses paid last year – are approximately 50 percent.

“The bipartisan skepticism of Visa and MasterCard’s claims about competition is further evidence that this is not a liberal or conservative issue.  Rather, it is a problem for American businesses and their customers who live with excessively high and ever-increasing swipe fees driven by the credit card duopoly.

“For nearly 20 years, ABL has fought for competition and fairness in the payment card market because for so many bars, taverns and package liquor stores, swipe fees are the second highest cost after labor and are non-negotiable.  By following the success achieved with debit card fee reform, which put savings back in consumers’ pockets, Congress should address runaway credit card swipe fees that fly in the face of competition.

“It is clear that the payment card marketplace ‘does not need to be this way’ and Congress should reject the anti-competitive behavior of the credit card industry by passing the Credit Card Competition Act to bring relief and competition that will ultimately benefit American consumers.”

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Outstanding Bar, Tavern and Package Beverage Store Owners Honored by National Trade Association

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) proudly recognized the 2024 ABL Retailers of the Year at its Annual Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas on July 27-29.  These prestigious awards honor beverage licensees who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and community engagement in the beverage alcohol industry.

This year’s award recipients were celebrated for their commitment to excellence, innovative practices, and significant contributions to their local communities.  Their efforts have not only enhanced their businesses but have also strengthened the broader beverage alcohol industry by setting high standards for customer service and responsible retailing.

“Each of these retailers exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and dedication that drives the beverage alcohol industry forward,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “They are leaders in their communities and advocates for our industry, showing how responsible and successful beverage retailing can make a positive impact both locally and nationally. ABL is proud to honor them for their achievements and their ongoing commitment to excellence.”

The 2024 ABL Retailers of the Year are:

• Alana Sasser | The Rabbit Hole | Tuscaloosa, AL
• Chris Carran | Locals Liquors | Silverthorne, CO
• Dwight Pardue | Olde Crabapple Bottle Shoppe | Alpharetta, GA
• Eddie Cruz | Jensen’s Liquors | Miami, FL
• Marty Jansen & Ryan Jansen | Orchard Inn Effingham, IL
• Charles Eberhardt | Community Spirits | Indianapolis, IN
• Joseph Carolan | Casa Mia’s Restaurant | Baltimore, MD
• Tushar Vadadoriya | JB Liquors | District Heights, MD
• Peter Balboni | Pioppi’s Package Store | Plymouth, MA
• Thomas Davis | Drunk’n Miner Copper Spirits Casino | Butte, MT
• Sean C. Negrin | Roselle Park Wines & Spirits | Roselle Park, NJ
• Jan & Mark Malik | Malik’s Fine Wine & Spirits | Warren, RI
• Larry Brenneman | BB Beverage, Inc. | Myrtle Beach, SC
• Thad Cox | Ashe’s Wines & Spirits | Knoxville, TN
• Justin Hamilton & Rebecca Drury | Spanky’s Liquor | Ingleside, TX
• Kris Zappa | Bourbon’s Bar | Cumberland, WI
• Cody Bateman | Discount Liquor | Evanston, WY

 

The 2024 Retailers of the Year were selected by ABL state affiliates from across the country, and represent the diversity of the retail tier of the beverage alcohol industry.  Their recognition underscores the vital role that independent retailers play in the fabric of their communities and in the national economy.

The ABL Annual Meeting in San Antonio provided a fitting backdrop for celebrating successul beverage businesses, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the most pressing issues facing the beverage alcohol industry today.  The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and advocacy in shaping the future of the industry.

ABL congratulates all of the honored businesses and licensees for their outstanding and continued contributions to their communities and the beverage alcohol the industry.

BETHESDA, MD – ABL held a successful Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas on July 27-29, celebrating beverage retailers’ important role in the American hospitality industry with educational sessions, product tasting and hospitality.  Industry leaders, policy experts, and members of the beverage alcohol community enjoyed insightful discussions, networking, and recognition of outstanding contributors to the industry.

Speakers highlighted a wide array of issues facing beverage licensees including third-party delivery companies for on-premise and off-premise alcohol; the evolving regulatory environment for hemp-derived THC and Delta-9 products; personal privacy laws and their impact on hospitality businesses; an overview of product, market and demographic trends currently shaping the industry; and industry reporters’ thoughts on the top stories in the alcohol industry.

Attendees also participated in events hosted by the Texas Package Stores Association as part of its Annual Convention & Trade Show, including an elegant wine tasting and a huge industry trade show featuring hundreds of products to taste and a joint general session featuring industry speakers.  ABL hosted a Brand Showcase of its own featuring more than 50 brands for attendees to enjoy, and to which TPSA members were invited.

“The hospitality ABL meeting attendees enjoyed in Texas was tremendous,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.  “In addition to our own extensive meeting program and providing value to our members, we were thrilled to participate with the Texas Package Stores Association and bring attention to both events.

At the ABL Board of Directors meeting that was held as part of the conference, ABL elected officers to two-year terms.  Bobby Greenawalt of Greenawalt Hospitality in Auburn, Alabama was re-elected as President; Nick Fede, Jr. of Kingstown Liquor Mart in North Kingstown, Rhode Island was elected Vice President – Off-Premise; Keith Kern of Jimmy’s Saloon in Superior, Wisconsin was elected Vice President – On-Premise; and Mark O’Callaghan of Exit 9 Wine & Liquor Warehouse in Clifton park, NY was elected At-Large Representative.

ABL recognized beverage licensees from across the country with the ABL Retailer of the Year Awards.  The Retailer of the Year awards recognize and honor ABL members who demonstrate excellence in advocacy; responsible sales and service practices; community engagement and service; and support of their state association.

Planning for the 2025 ABL Annual Meeting is underway with updates planned soon at www.ablusa.org.

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Common policy issues, food safety, and responsible alcohol service training will be primary focus of partnership

Bethesda, MD (August 6, 2024) – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) today announced that the National Restaurant Association, the leading business association for the restaurant industry, has joined its associate membership program as a platinum member. The two organizations will work together on issues significant to both, including food safety and responsible alcohol service education and training.

The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe® is the premier provider of educational resources, materials, and programs to help attract and develop a strong foodservice industry workforce. It has been named one of America’s Top Online Learning Schools for two years running. ServSafe offers essential food and alcohol safety training and certification exams created by foodservice professionals and provides supplemental resources and best practices for all restaurant operators.

“For ABL members, ensuring the safety of their guests and the integrity of business operations is a top priority,” said John Bodnovich, ABL’s Executive Director. “By partnering with ServSafe, we are able to offer our members access to more options for training that will help them meet and exceed safety standards and continue their long-standing commitment to the responsible sale and service of beverage alcohol.”

The National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant and foodservice industry — which has more than 1 million outlets and employs more than 15.5 million people. Together with 52 state associations, the Association is a network of professional organizations dedicated to serving every restaurant through advocacy, education, and food safety training.

“ServSafe, the industry’s leading food safety training program, has awarded more than 19 million food safety credentials since its launch in 1990,” said Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association. “We share ABL’s commitment to responsible alcohol service, and through this partnership, we’re building opportunities for their members to more easily and affordably access ServSafe Alcohol training and for us to learn directly from them how we might enhance our training offerings.”

Through its Associate Membership Program, ABL will provide ServSafe as their preferred food and beverage safety program.

To learn more about the National Restaurant Association, visit restaurant.org and to learn more about ServSafe food safety and responsible alcohol training, visit servsafe.com.

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