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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April 25, 2024 — BETHESDA, MD – Momentum is building for the 2024 ABL Annual Meeting in San Antonio with speakers and sponsors jumping aboard and joining the program.  Taking place on July 27-29, 2024 at the San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk, attendees of ABL’s signature event are also invited to attend the Texas Package Stores Association (TPSA) Trade Show and other hospitality events taking place as part of the 77^th Annual TPSA Convention & Trade Show.

Confirmed speakers include:

• Sarah Barrett, Executive Editor of Wine & Spirits Daily, a leading daily publication with original reporting covering a host of issues on the wine and spirits industry;
• Craig Purser, President & CEO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) which represents America’s 3,000 independent beer distributors;
• Harry Schuhmacher, Publisher & Owner of Schuhmacher Publishing Company which publishes the influential Beer Business Daily.

Meeting attendees will also hear from NielsenIQ’s beverage alcohol practice who will share their perspectives on industry trends.  More speakers will be announced soon.

The conference will feature signature hospitality events, including those hosted by the American Distilled Spirits Alliance and Molson Coors Beverage Company.  ABL is also pleased to announce a growing group of beverage alcohol brands and companies that will be featured at the ABL Brand Showcase tasting event on Monday, July 29.

Confirmed brands include: Balcones Distilling, Beam-Suntory, Brown-Forman, Campari Group, Diageo, Dripping Springs Distilling, Edrington, Garrison Brothers, Infinium Spirits, Lalo Spirits, Luxco, Luxury Spirits, Milestone, Moet Hennessy USA, Pernod-Ricard USA, Remy Cointreau, Sazerac Co., and Serralles, USA.

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 holding a joint General Session on Monday, July 29 with engaging speakers that will lead-in to the ABL Brand Showcase Monday afternoon.

Registration is now open for the annual meeting, and attendees can book their stay today at San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk at a nightly rate of $199 + applicable taxes and fees.  ABL’s room block is limited, and reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with the room block scheduled to close on July 5, 2024.

For the latest updates and information on the 2024 ABL Annual Meeting, be sure to visit www.ablusa.org.

March 12, 2024 – BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) announced today that it will hold the 2024 ABL Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas on July 27-29, 2024.  Registration is now open for the event, which we will take place at the San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk.  In addition to ABL Annual Meeting events and hospitality, attendees are also invited to the Texas Package Stores Association (TPSA) Trade Show and other hospitality events taking place as part of the 77^th Annual TPSA Convention & Trade Show.

“Everything is bigger in Texas, and we expect that to be the case for the ABL Annual Meeting this summer,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “This year we’re excited to build on the traditional ABL meeting and all the educational speakers, networking opportunities and hospitality that attendees have come to expect, with additional experiences and value thanks to TPSA and the great events it hosts.”

The ABL Annual Meeting will continue to focus on trends in alcohol policy and regulation, as well as developments in the alcohol marketplace.  Top practitioners from the beverage alcohol industry will share their expertise and views on key issues for licensed beverage retailers.  Past speakers have addressed a wide variety of topics including changes to alcohol policies, marijuana, the economy and inflation, enforcement of alcohol laws and much more.  As with past meetings, the goal of the conference is for attendees to bring home new insights and material to their states to help them be stronger advocates for themselves and their businesses.

Registered ABL attendees are invited to join TPSA at various events throughout the weekend including the Cork Pull, Trade Show, and AfterGlow Party.  ABL and TPSA are also working together on a joint General Session on Monday, July 29 with engaging speakers that will lead-in to the ABL Brand Showcase Monday afternoon.

With the ABL Annual Meeting taking place just steps from the San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk, meeting registrants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of San Antonio – in addition to enjoying a host of hospitality events that are part of the program.

Attendees can book their stay today at San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk at a nightly rate of $199 + applicable taxes and fees.  ABL’s room block is limited, and reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with the room block scheduled to close on July 5, 2024.

Additional information – including sponsorship opportunities, speakers, and hospitality events – will be announced in the coming weeks.  For the latest updates and information on the 2024 ABL Annual Meeting, be sure to visit www.ablusa.org.

December 5, 2023 — BETHESDA, MD — American Beverage Licensees (ABL), the nation’s leading trade association representing on- and off-premise beverage alcohol retailers, is raising a glass in celebration of the 90th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition, which took place on December 5, 1933. This milestone marks nearly a century of the restoration of a fundamental American tradition: the right to responsibly enjoy beer, wine and spirits.

Ninety years ago today, the 21st Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, bringing an end to the failed experiment of Prohibition. This landmark accomplishment not only reinvigorated the American beverage alcohol industry but also revitalized local economies and jobs, with taverns, pubs and package stores popping up to meet a thirsty nation.

In addition to reversing the past mistake of the 18^th Amendment, the 21^st Amendment proved to be forward-looking, providing states with broad authority over the regulation of beverage alcohol.  Today, hundreds of thousands of retail beverage licensees across the country successfully compete in marketplaces structured by the state and local licensing and regulation of their businesses.  Operating under carefully considered rules and constantly scrutinized state laws, local beverage retailers continue to demonstrate their commitment to promoting responsible consumption of alcohol, and safe commerce of age-restricted products.

“The 90^th anniversary of Repeal Day serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the American spirit and the importance of choice and responsible consumption,” said John Bodnovich, Executive Director of ABL. “Our members, representing a diverse array of businesses across the country, are honored to continue the tradition of providing a welcoming and responsible environment for guests to discover and enjoy products new and old, local and imported, traditional and cutting edge.”

The past nine decades have seen the growth and diversification of beverage establishments, which contribute significantly to job creation, tourism, and the overall economic vitality of their communities.  Despite this success, beverage retailers remain watchful for the re-imposition of Prohibition-like policies that would have a negative impact on jobs, tax revenue and economic activity.

“Small beverage businesses are committed to the reputational protection of beverage alcohol and will stay vigilant against any efforts to bring back the failed policies of the past,” said Bodnovich.  “Beverage licensees’ focus continues to be on educating consumers, responsible sales and service practices, and collaborative efforts with industry, lawmakers, regulators and the public to address concerns.”

ABL invites all beverage licensees and their customers nationwide to join the celebration of Repeal Day and encourages everyone to come together to commemorate the end of America’s failed noble experiment.

June 30, 2023

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) recognized outstanding bar and package liquor store owners from across the country as ABL Retailers of the Year at the ABL Annual Meeting in St. Louis, Missouri on June 11.  Nominated by their state licensed beverage associations for excellence in advocacy, commitment to responsible sales and service practices, community engagement, and support of their state association, these leaders are ambassadors of the vibrant retail alcohol marketplaces found in states throughout the country.  Whether operating on-premise bars or taverns, or off-premise beer, wine and liquor stores, these business owners are examples of American entrepreneurship and the small businesses that create jobs that power the economy.

“Our members are the engines that make their businesses, associations and industry go,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich.  “They’re on the front lines when it comes to telling the stories about exciting products, creating a welcoming atmosphere for their guests, fighting for their businesses and employees in their state legislatures, and making sure that responsible sales and service never take a back seat. We’re humbled by their dedication and perseverance, and so pleased to recognize their hard work.”

The 2023 ABL Retailers of the Year include:

• Mary Burns | City Limits Package Store | Monroeville, AL
• Ken Kichler | Tacky Jacks | Orange Beach, AL
• Ron Harrison | Loganville Package Store | Loganville, GA
• Jim Shirey | Irving Athletic Club | Joliet, IL
• Gary Gardner | Belmont Beverage | Fort Wayne, IN
• Julianne Sullivan | Bella’s Liquors | Annapolis, MD
• Jaskinder Gill | AJ Liquors | Colmar Manor, MD
• Jay Bond Patel | Curtis Liquors | Weymouth, MA
• Sue Minehart | MineAgain’s Bar & Grill | Albert Lea, MN
• Dax Cetraro | Rialto Bar & Casino | Helena, MT
• Amy & Michael Patalano | Spirits Unlimited | Toms River, NJ
• Ritesh Pastel | Tiverton Liquor Store | Tiverton, RI
• Ralph Cantey, Jr. | Traders of Camden | Camden, SC
• Jimmy Cole & Ann Cole | Poplar Wine and Spirits | Collierville, TN
• Anuj Mittal | Zipps Liquors | Conroe, TX
• Mark Rehwinkel | Cusack’s Pub | Marinette, WI
• Kevin Georges | DT’s Liquor and Tusker Bar | Cheyenne, WY

 

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

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June 29, 2023

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) celebrated its 21^st anniversary of representing independent on- and off-premise beer, wine and spirits retailers at the ABL Annual Meeting earlier this month in St. Louis, Missouri.  With the meeting taking places just steps from Busch Stadium, the meeting’s theme of “Swinging for the Fences” was underscored by the messages of meeting speakers who shared information and ideas on how beverage licensees can boost their businesses, their state associations, and their industry.

ABL Annual Meeting attendees heard from an array of speakers from the public and private sectors who covered a wide range of topics.  Industry economist Lester Jones of the National Beer Wholesalers Association shared his insights on both macroeconomic issues and industry-level economic topics.  Stephanie Badger of the Merchants Payments Coalition briefed on the newly introduced Credit Card Competition Act and how beverage retailers can engage members of Congress with grassroots lobbying.  Two security-related presentations – one from the “O.G. of Cannabis Security” Tony Gallo, and another from nightlife security consultant Robert Smith – discussed how high-risk businesses should implement security measures and how they can and should prepare and plan for an active shooter situation, respectively.

From the industry trade association world, Bill Young of the Beer Institute discussed the evolving public health policy landscape for alcohol, and Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of American general counsel Jake Hegeman presented on the current legal climate as well as federal trade practices and cannabis legislation.  Chris Shepard from Beer Marketers Insights closed the conference by opening his reporter’s notebook to discuss a wide range of topics making headlines and how they are being reported in trade media and perceived by the public.

ABL recognized Jim Ryan, Senior Vice President for Constellations Brands, with the ABL Top Shelf Award, the association’s highest honor.  Jim, who is concluding a 47-year career in the beer industry, has been a long-time friend to ABL and its bar, tavern and package store members as a representative of Constellation Brands, the Beer Institute, and the National Association of Beverage Importers.  ABL also recognized the 2023 Retailers of the Year, honoring those beverage retailers who excel in advocacy; responsible sales and service; community engagement; and support of their state retail beverage associations.

In addition to conference support from e-commerce solutions provider City Hive, American Distilled Spirits Alliance and Molson-Coors, meeting attendees participated in a tour and tasting experience at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where they learned about the history of the brewing icon. The meeting also featured the support of 25 leading distillers and spirits brands.

The ABL Board of Directors elected a slate of new leaders to join those continuing their service on the ABL Executive Committee. Joining the ABL Executive Committee are Terry Harvath of The Wishing Well Bar & Grill in Appleton, Wisconsin who will serve as Vice President – On-Premise; Ben Weiner of Sav-Mor Spirits in Somerville, Massachusetts who will serve as Vice President – Off-Premise; Mat Dinsmore of Wilbur’s Total Beverage in Fort Collins, Colorado who will serve as Treasurer; and Jay Gesner of Souse’s Lounge in Rockford, Illinois who will serve as an At-Large member of the Executive Committee.  These newly elected ABL officers bring a wealth of business and association experience to their new roles having all served as Presidents of their state retail beverage associations.

They join President Bobby Greenawalt of B&B Beverage Management in Auburn, Alabama; Vice President – Off-Premise Josh Hammond of Buster’s Liquors & Wines in Memphis, Tennessee; Vice President On-Premise Steve Morris of Jorgenson’s Restaurant & Lounge in Helena, Montana; At-Large representative Keith Kern of Jimmy’s Saloon in Superior, Wisconsin; and immediate Past-President J.J. Moran, of the Four Winds Liquor & Lounge in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

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May 31, 2023

BETHESDA, MD – American Beverage Licensees (ABL) Executive Director John Bodnovich issued the following statement regarding the reintroduction of the USPS Shipping Equity Act:

“Locally licensed beer, wine and spirits retailers, who bear the responsibility of ensuring that alcohol is only sold to those who are 21 and older, remain steadfastly opposed to legislation that would sanction the shipping of alcohol by the United States Postal Service (USPS).  The USPS Shipping Equity Act (H.R. 3721) would endanger the Constitutional authority that provides states with regulatory oversight over alcohol sales and distribution, and would invariably increase instances of illegal alcohol shipping.

“Legislators have routinely rejected legislation to ship alcohol through the mail in previous Congresses, including over the nearly decade-long effort to secure broad, postal service reform.  An amendment to include the USPS Shipping Equity Act in the bipartisan and successful Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, failed to secure even a vote from the House Oversight Committee.

“State alcohol regulators are steadily learning more about the serious problem of illegal alcohol shipping in the United States.  They are taking steps to stop illegal shippers and to prevent counterfeit and tainted alcohol problems that are sadly more common in other countries.  Creating another pathway for illegal alcohol shipping – especially one in which the shipper is not accountable to state alcohol regulatory actions due to its federal sovereignty – threatens to undermine the progress state officials are making in shutting down illegal alcohol shipping.  It also jeopardizes what is the most vibrant alcohol marketplace in the world, where companies large and small can compete and thrive, and consumers are afforded a wider selection of products than ever before.

“With the U.S. Postal Service looking to cut costs to offset deepening losses, and facing serious mail delivery issues, now is not the time to ask its hardworking employees to take on the task of complying with 50 sets of state alcohol shipping laws.  Beverage licensees encourage members of Congress to reflect on the negative implications this legislation would have on the Constitutional authority vested in the states per the 21^st Amendment, and the public safety risks it would create.

“With plenty of other challenges facing Main Street beverage businesses, we encourage members of Congress to refrain from supporting this legislation, and instead work on issues that bring together the beverage alcohol industry and those it serves.”

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