ABL Insider: Summer 2013

ABL Insider THE VOICE OF AMERICA’S BEER, WINE & SPIRITS RETAILERS

A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN BEVERAGE LICENSEES | VOL. 7, NO. 2 | Summer 13

2013 Conference Preview ABL Fighting for Retailers in D.C.

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ABL Celebrates 60th Annual Tavern Month page 13

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Affiliates Find Success in State Legislatures

ABL INSIDER | SUMMERpage 13 |

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ABL Insider

A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN BEVERAGE LICENSEES | VOL. 7, NO. 2 | Summer 2013

a word before ABL Addresses National Media, Capitol Hill on Economic Impact of Retail Beer Sales Beverage Licensees Provide Choice, Value and Service for Beer Consumers On March 21, American Beverage Licensees addressed a new report detailing the value of all three tiers of the beer industry – brewers, distributors and retailers – in remarks delivered in Washington, D.C.

Published by: American Beverage Licensees (ABL) 5101 River Rd, Suite 108 Bethesda, MD 20816 (301) 656-1494 www.ablusa.org editor ROSANNE FERRUGGIA (c) 2013 American Beverage Licensees.

All rights reserved.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Leaders from ABL recognized brewers and beer distributors for releasing Beer Serves America, a comprehensive look at the positive impact that the beer industry has on job creation, economic development and tax revenue.

Speaking to national and local media, Chuck Ferrar, President of ABL’s Board of Directors and owner of Bay Ridge Wine and Spirits in Annapolis, Maryland, said, “As an independent retailer, I value my relationships with my beer distributors and the brewers whose products I sell.”

executive director JOHN BODNOVICH director, trade relations & operations SUSAN DAY DUFFY

He continued to discuss the priorities in his store, which sells over 500 varieties of beer.

ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich and ABL President Chuck Ferrar addressed the media at National Press Club and Congressional staff in the Cannon House Office Building.

“Giving my customers a variety of products, from the large brewers they trust, to the small, independent craft brewers they are just getting know, is only possible through the success we have seen in the three-tier system.”

ABL members, who in many cases are some of the very last locally-owned and operated businesses on America’s Main Streets, are where customers can sample the latest craft brew, pick up a six-pack after work or even get a job.

ABL Executive Director John D. Bodnovich also addressed members of the media at the National Press Club and Congressional staff on Capitol Hill, stating, “America’s independent beverage retailers offer an unparalleled array of beer choices when it comes to brands and formats.”

With national unemployment rates still at unacceptable levels, beverage retailers are doing their part to offer opportunities that provide stability and quality of life.

“In addition to providing a world of choice, local taverns and package stores meet the demands of beer consumers by providing product knowledge so that customers can enjoy the beer that’s right for them.”

manager, communications & public relations ROSANNE FERRUGGIA intern CHADD SMITH

Citing information from ABL’s 2012 Economic Impact Report on America’s Beer, Wine & Spirits Retailers, Bodnovich continued, “It’s these local small businesses, who create more than 1.4 million jobs, where communities come together.”|

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Where We’re Headed

NHTSA on MAP-21; Estate Tax & Marketplace Fairness in “Votea-rama”

We Don’t Serve Teens— a True Industry Partnership

Guidelines and Timelines on the Affordable Healthcare Act

Victories Across the Country

where we stand

BY CHUCK FERRAR ABL President

dc update

from the industry

BY CRAIG WOLF President and CEO, Wine & Spirits

memo to membership

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Wholesalers of America

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Lobbying for Beverage Licensees in Washington, DC

Delivering the World of Beer to American Consumers

from the office

BY JOHN BODNOVICH ABL Executive Director

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from the industry

BY CRAIG PURSER President / CEO, National Beer Wholesalers Association

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special preview: ABL 2013 Conference in Washington, DC

affiliate update

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feature May is Tavern Month

state-based groups calendar

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associate members affiliate members

where we stand

BY CHUCK FERRAR, PRESIDENT AMERICAN BEVERAGE LICENSEES

Where We’re Headed With this the last “President’s Column” of my tenure as ABL President, I’ve taken some time reflect on ABL as an organization.

That has meant looking at where we’ve been, where we are, and where we should be.

It’s no coincidence that the future of ABL has been on my mind. This March, at the ABL Board of Directors meeting in Atlanta, we held a discussion about strategically planning for the future.

A Strategic Planning Committee has been formed, and it is my hope that we will develop an updated roadmap for the association in the coming months.

Considering our strengths, looking for areas in which we can expand our influence, and reaching for new heights as an organization depends on us defining our priorities at the most basic level.

Looking back over my time as ABL Board President, I am proud to have worked with the Board of Directors during what I think has been an important two years in ABL’s history.

I strongly believe that growing the strength of the organization and its affiliates must remain our

“The path to a stronger retail tier is not just through stronger bars and taverns, or through more connected package stores, but through both of us working side by side and shoulder to shoulder as independent business owners.” top priority as we move forward. The stronger our individual members, the stronger we are as a whole.

nationwide focus on the issues that affect us all, while expanding our focus to the state-based issues that are a threat to our industry and our livelihoods.

Challenges still lie ahead, however.

As we move deeper into 2013 and 2014 beyond, we all face a brave new world when it comes to healthcare laws. The realities of the Affordable Care Act are just beginning to make themselves apparent to small business, including many beverage licensees.

In addition to a legislative and Congressional presence, ABL has acted to provide guidance on regulatory matters such as the Affordable Care Act, just like it has in the past with FDA tobacco guidelines, swipe fee rules and TTB changes.

I’m positive that ABL will continue to use its resources and connections to share federal regulatory information relevant to all ABL members through the ABL Washington Update and ABL’s home on the web, www.ablusa.org.

While ABL does not generally take positions on state issues, it continues to act a forum for the discussion of those issues. That means sharing information from state affiliates and the battles they are undertaking.

It has truly been an honor to represent my fellow retailers in communications to members of Congress, the media, and to our partners in the alcohol industry.

Yet my greatest privilege while serving as President of ABL has been getting to better know ABL members, your needs, your priorities and your role in your communities.

I thought I knew a fair amount about the business, having been in it since 1991. But I’ve found that my understanding was merely the tip of the iceberg.

Serving as President of ABL has illuminated my view of the retail tier, especially our on-premise members.

We have all seen that we can stand stronger together while embracing the differences between our business models.

The path to a stronger retail tier is not just through stronger bars and taverns, or through more connected package stores, but through both of us working side by side and shoulder to shoulder as independent business owners.

Behind the scenes, the ABL staff work diligently to represent our interests in Washington. ABL has solid representation in Washington, D.C., and in the past two years, we have prevailed in battles to help ABL members’ bottom line including estate tax and swipe fee reform.

I want to thank you for the incredible opportunity this has been.

And despite a fair amount of discussion, there have been no new federal unfunded mandates on states when it comes to how we are trying to tackle the serious problem of drunk driving.

I look forward to working with the next ABL President and the rest of ABL, to continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the retail tier. |

I am confident that whoever steps into this role for the next two years, will continue to fight for ABL members.

Looking forward, ABL will strive to maintain its

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from the office

BY JOHN D. BODNOVICH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AMERICAN BEVERAGE LICENSEES

Lobbying for Beverage Licensees in Washington, DC ABL members are busy people. The majority manage the day-to-day operations of their bars or stores, and are often the ones who put the key in the lock in the morning to open and once again at night to close. When they are not doing what they can to improve their businesses and earn a living for themselves and their families, they are facing a multitude of other challenges.

It’s clear from your membership in your state licensed beverage association and ABL that you value collective action when it comes to your business. But it would be unrealistic to think that independent beverage licensees have the time and resources to track and act on everything that is going on in Washington that might affect their livelihood.

One of our goals at ABL is make it easier for beverage licensees to collectively engage on federal policy issues before Congress.

We achieve that goal through a number of different methods and

“In an age of limited time and resources, a focused approach to advocacy and a strategy that targets those who are in a position to make a difference is important.” actions, which includes engaging our members to make sure they are informed and knowledgeable about the issues. But just as importantly, ABL is fulfilling its promise to its members by representing their interests before members before Congress.

Representation in Washington, D.C.

A recent conversation I had with an ABL Board member produced a number of thoughtful ideas, but perhaps the most important one was that an association like ABL – or any trade association for that matter – only works if there is action by both its association staff

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in Washington and by its rank-andfile members.

Let’s look, for a moment, on what ABL is doing in Washington, D.C. We’ve had success in the past in with our legislative agenda and the action undertaken to support it. That has included: • Repealing the Special Occupational Tax (SOT), saving beverage retailers $250 per year; • Securing debit card fee reform which lowered fees from an average of $0.45 to $0.22; • Achieving permanent Estate Tax reform with a 40% top rate and $5 million exemption, indexed to inflation and with spousal portability.

That’s not to mention the accomplishments that ABL has had on behalf of its members that don’t make headlines. Just because you don’t always see ABL in the news doesn’t mean your voice isn’t being heard. As many of you know, victory is sometimes defined more by what doesn’t happen than by what does.

Along those lines, ABL is meeting with members of Congress and their staff to share information and perspective on important issues such as drunk driving policy, underage access to alcohol and other important alcoholrelated issues – including such “unglamorous” issues as taxation and mandates – so that when issue debates do take place, policymakers have the facts.

In an age of limited time and resources, a focused approach to advocacy and a strategy that targets those who are in a position to make a difference is important.

Just as a politician running for office in California would not expend time and energy courting voters in New Jersey, ABL reaches out to Congressional Committees who have jurisdiction over the issues important to beverage retailers.

Coalitions & Grassroots

One hallmark of ABL’s advocacy efforts has been its efforts to build and participate in coalitions.

When going up against some of the biggest interest groups in the country, it’s rarely a winning

strategy to do so on one’s own.

But with interests large and small pulling an oar in the same direction, it is possible to make progress.

ABL plays a powerful role in coalitions because our members are the ones who provide jobs to people from all walks of life and in nearly every Congressional district across the country. They’re the ones who provide settings for business and pleasure, and they’re also the ones who sell products that nearly everyone on Capitol Hill enjoys.

Coalition work also draws on another important piece of the advocacy puzzle: grassroots.

When I talk to other alcohol industry trade groups about working together as an industry, to a person they cite ABL’s grassroots base as its single greatest strength. Normal people with local businesses, employing friends and neighbors, and sharing their perspective on policy is itself quite powerful.

But at ABL, we have an obligation to do more than rely on our grassroots. We must set the table for our members so that when they are ready to metaphorically break bread with legislators, both sides will have the ability to connect with one another and discuss their thoughts and opinions on important issues.

Our Work is Never Done

Just like the beverage licensees we represent, whose work day is never truly over, there is always more that can be done. That includes identifying new avenues for advancing beverage retailers issues and continuing to make outreach and introductions to the constantly changing landscape of Congress. It also means constantly re-evaluating our legislative priorities, something that the ABL Board of Directors does at every meeting.

I’m committed to continuing to grow and build on the already solid foundation on which ABL sits. By developing an ever more prominent presence in Washington, and fighting for our members, ABL will continue to fulfill its mission. |

washington, dc update NHTSA on MAP-21; Estate Tax & Marketplace Fairness in “Vote-a-rama” NHTSA Updates Congress: Drunk Driving Fatalities Down On Thursday, March 14, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Highways and Transit held a hearing titled “Implementing MAP-21: Progress Report from U.S. DOT Modal Administrators.”

Among U.S. Department of Transportation officials testifying was David Strickland, Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In his testimony, Administrator Strickland reported, “Highway fatalities fell to 32,367 in 2011, marking the lowest level since 1949 and a 1.9 percent decrease from the previous year. The historic downward trend in recent years continued through 2011 and represent a 26 percent decline in traffic fatalities overall since 2005. For the first time since 1981 (when data were first available), motor vehicle traffic crashes were not among the top 10 causes of death in the United States.

When discussing drunk driving, he pointed out, “Drunk driving fatalities dropped 2.5 percent in 2011, taking 9,878 lives compared to 10,136 in 2010.”

PAYMENT CARD CLASS ACTION He added that, “MAP-21 consolidated the SETTLEMENT various grant programs from SAFETEA-LU, Frequently Asked Questions Many retailers are interested in learning more including impaired driving and motorcycle grants, about the payment card settlement, and what have been consolidated along with the new GDL and distracted driving grants, into a new Section they could receive as part of the class. Here 405 National Priority Safety program. This unified are some frequently asked questions and answers: grant program provides the states a single, consolidated application and annual deadline, Q. Does receiving a class action notice about and greater flexibility to ensure grant funds are the lawsuit have anything to do with your directed to priority highway safety programs.” legal rights?

A. No. You are part of the class if you accepted The Subcommittee on Highways and Transit Visa/MasterCard payments from 2004-2012. has responsibility for the development of national surface transportation policy, construction and improvement of highway and transit facilities, Q. How much money could I receive?

A. It is estimated that each person in the class implementation of safety and research programs, and regulation of commercial motor vehicle would recover approximately the amount of money their business pays in interchange fees operations. over a 2-3 month period.

The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Q. Does the number of merchants who opt-out have an impact on the potential pay-out to those who remain part of the class?

A. Yes. The more merchants that opt out, the more the pot increases for those who stay in as part of the class. Similarly, distribution of the pot will also be based on how many people actually submit claims. Fewer claims means more money recovered per merchant.

Q. How many merchants have opted out?

A. The majority of named plaintiffs and approximately 1,200 additional merchants oppose the proposed settlement, and retailer groups have filed papers objecting to preliminary approval of the proposed settlement.

Century Act (MAP-21)—the latest reauthorization of these programs—was enacted in the summer of 2012. MAP-21 reauthorizes Federal surface transportation programs through September 30, 2014.

STOP ACT Reintroduced In February, legislation to reauthorize the Sober Truth on Preventing (STOP) Underage Drinking Act (STOP Act) (H.R. 498) was introduced by Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) along with Reps.

Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT).

In general, the legislation calls for addressing underage drinking with the continuation of an interagency coordinating committee, a parentfocused media campaign and a community grant program that has facilitated community efforts to address underage drinking.

Q. Do you expect a lot of merchant claims?

A. Yes, there are many third-party claims firms Small Brewers Push Tax Bill trying to get people to file a claim, so the A tax bill has garnered the support of the craft response and filing for claims level will likely beer industry. be very high.

Q. What is the timeframe?

A. May 28, 2013: Deadline for merchants to opt-out and/or object; September 2013: Hearing is scheduled; Late 2013: Court issues final opinion; Late 2013: Possible appeal to Circuit Court; Late 2014: Circuit Court final opinion; 2015-2018: Payout process takes place.

The Small Brewer Reinvestment and Expanding Workforce Act (Small BREW Act) (H.R. 494) would lower tax rates for the smallest brewers and brewpubs to $3.50 on the first 60,000 barrels.

For production between 60,001 and 2 million barrels the rate would be $16.00 per barrel. Any brewer that exceeds 2 million barrels (about 1 percent of the U.S. beer market) would begin paying the full $18 rate.

Not surprisingly, this legislation has the support of the Brewers Association. Similar legislation introduced in the 112thCongress, H.R. 1236 and S. 534, gaining a total of 174 and 44 cosponsors respectively.

Minimum Wage Conversation Heats Up A discussion about the federal minimum wage was kick started in Washington thanks to President Obama’s call for its increase to $9.00/hour in his State of the Union address. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25/ hour but is higher in 20 states.

In direct response to the President’s call, Reps. Donna Edwards (D-MD) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) introduced the Working for Adequate Gains for Employment in Services Act (WAGES Act) (H.R. 650) which would raise the minimum wage of tipped employees from the current level of $2.13 per hour to $3.75 per hour three months after enactment, to $5 per hour one year after enactment, and 70 percent of minimum wage – but no less than $5.50 per hour – two years after enactment.

On March 15, the House rejected a bill sponsored by Rep. George Miller (D-CA) to raise the federal minimum wage to $10.10 incrementally over three years. The bill was defeated by a vote of 233-184.

Senate Passes Democratic Budget; Estate Tax & Tax Fairness Amendment Votes In the wee hours of Saturday, March 23, a $3.7 trillion Democratic budget bill (S.CON.RES.8) passed for the first time in four years by a vote of 50-49.

As part of the Budget Act procedure, Senators were given the opportunity to offer non-binding amendments in a process commonly known as “vote-a-rama.” Two such amendments concerning issues that ABL and its members have tracked or worked on were included Senator John Thune (R-SD) offered an amendment that would have fully repealed the estate tax, using a “deficitneutral reserve fund.”

ABL had signed a letter in support of the Thune amendment, along with a coalition of other organizations who have long sought the repeal of the estate tax.

However, the Senate rejected the amendment by a vote of 46-53.

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) also offered an amendment to the budget bill during the vote-a-rama that would allow states to enforce their own sales and use tax laws, and reflected the policy goals set forth in the Marketplace Fairness Act (S.336).

The amendment passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 75-24, with both Democratic and Republican cosponsors.

The Marketplace Fairness Act would grants states the authority to compel online and catalog retailers no matter where they are located, to collect sales tax at the time of a transaction - exactly like local retailers are already required to do.

However, states would only be granted this authority after they have simplified their sales tax laws. To learn more about the Marketplace Fairness Act, visit www.marketplacefairness.org.

Payment Card Settlement Objection Deadline & Website With the objection and opt-out period for the $7.25 billion payment card settlement ending on May 28, 2013, one of the plaintiffs in the case has created a website to increase the ease with which merchants can object or opt-out of the lawsuit.

The website, www.MerchantsObject.com, was created by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS).

It is “channel neutral” and will allow any merchant or business that accepted credit cards since 2004 (i.e. the Class) to object and opt out of the proposed settlement via electronic signature.

For more information about the settlement, visit www.paymentcardsettlement.com. |

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from the industry

BY CRAIG PURSER, PRESIDENT / CEO NATIONAL BEER WHOLESALERS ASSOCIATION

Delivering the World of Beer to American Consumers After a few tough years brought on by a national economic downturn, market analysts like The Nielsen Company’s alcohol beverage team are now reporting some good news: beer is back.

New flavors, formats and packaging are all contributing to some bright spots for beer in recent months, with upscale, craft and imported beers leading the way.

Today, there are more than 2,200 breweries in operation across America, and more than 13,000 labels of beer for American consumers to enjoy.

Without a doubt – America is in the midst of a beer boom!

This success is due in large part to the effectiveness

“Today, there are more than 2,200 breweries in operation across America, and more than 13,000 labels of beer for American consumers to enjoy. Without a doubt – America is in the midst of a beer boom!” of the independent threetier distribution system that allows access to market for brewers of all sizes and a state-based regulatory system that works to level the playing field between brewers, distributors and retailers.

Independent beer distributors are proud to work with brewers to provide the infrastructure they need

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to reach a wide network of retailers, and distributors are proud to partner with American Beverage Licensees (ABL) members to help introduce new beer brands and innovative beer styles to markets across the country.

management programs and category management advice.

Because of the terrific relationships America’s 3,300 licensed beer distributors have with the more than 500,000 licensed retailers from coast to coast, American consumers are being exposed to more labels and varieties of beer at their local stores, bars and restaurants.

These activities help educate retailers and consumers about new product categories, beer styles and ways to best enjoy beer and enhance retailers’ profitability.

Today’s marketplace offers an unparalleled number of styles and flavors of beer for diverse occasions, and American consumers are demonstrating that they enjoy this vast choice and variety.

In addition to the regulatory and economic benefits that the three-tier system of alcohol distribution and beer distributors provide, distributors offer services that improve efficiency for trading partners and result in significant commercial value for retailers and consumers.

Distributors ensure reliable and predictable product availability for all licensed retailers.

These services include delivery frequency, warehousing, inventory management, space

Distributors also build brands through store level merchandising, product promotion, marketing initiatives and local event sponsorships.

Independent retailers who work with a distributor that they feel goes above and beyond in their efforts to actively market, sell and promote craft beer should consider visiting www. nbwa.org to find out how to nominate their pick for the 2013 Craft Beer Distributor of the Year Award.

The strength and growth of the craft beer category is just one indication of the robust relationship between independent distributors and licensed retailers.

It is an exciting time for beer – and an exciting time for retailers to be working with distributors to deliver the world of beer to American consumers. |

from the industry

BY CRAIG WOLF, PRESIDENT AND CEO WINE & SPIRITS WHOLESALERS OF AMERICA

We Don’t Serve Teens— a True Industry Partnership One of the objectives

that unite each of the trade and industry organizations in the beverage alcohol industry is our commitment to preventing the sale of alcohol to underage drinkers. That is why I am pleased to report that WSWA and our partners at DISCUS and ABL are working together to reinvigorate the popular “We Don’t Serve Teens” social responsibility campaign in 2013.

We Don’t Serve Teens has proven to generate positive support and attention with members of each of our respective organizations.

Importantly, this campaign and others like it have helped deliver real results in

“WSWA is committed to working with our industry partners to advance a legislative agenda that makes it harder for minors to access alcohol and rewards responsible retailers for their efforts to prevent underage access to alcohol.” communicating the industry’s zero-tolerance position on the sale of product to underage drinkers.

In recent weeks, representatives of our three organizations have met and outlined ways we each can contribute to help re-launch and refocus the campaign.

Wholesalers have committed to supporting the campaign in key markets nationwide.

Suppliers have pledged their involvement through DISCUS, and retailers have signaled their support through ABL, which is essential because they are the front-lines in the war against underage drinking.

In prior years, the campaign has worked in partnership with the Federal Trade Commission and state government and non-profit agencies to prepare logos, artwork, template advertisements, bus and transit ads, billboards and point of sale materials. They have also launched and maintained a comprehensive website full of resources for parents, retailers, schools and other stakeholders.

This year, we want to grow the campaign to new levels.

One of the ways we will do this is by expanding the campaign’s presence on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Google+. The advantage of social media is that it offers a guaranteed vehicle where targeted advertising will reach its intended audience.

Another change to the campaign will be

the development of a comprehensive state legislative agenda. This new element will help match our collective industry’s tough talk with tough consequences for offenders and strict enforcement.

WSWA is committed to working with our industry partners to advance a legislative agenda that makes it harder for minors to access alcohol and rewards responsible retailers for their efforts to prevent underage drinking. By working together as an industry we can use our expertise to target the real causes of underage drinking.

The campaign will include launch events in strategic media markets and state capitals targeting governors, state legislatures, and attorneys general, encouraging them to act on the We Don’t Serve Teens legislative agenda.

In past years, our industry has worked together to achieve results with the We Don’t Serve Teens campaign.

Working together again, we can modernize the campaign and help continue the important work of setting a zero tolerance policy for underage drinking. We’re looking forward to working with ABL and its membership to help make our campaign goals a reality. |

In 2010, more than 59 percent of high school seniors reported no recent alcohol use. Since state laws matched up to establish 21 as the minimum drinking age, the likelihood that a 15-20 year old driver will be involved in a fatal crash has dropped by more than half. These are positive results, but they are not enough. We can and must do more.

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abl conference 2013

O T S E M O ABL C C D , N O T G N I H S WA

This summer, the American Beverage Licensees will celebrate its eleventh Annual Meeting with the first organization-wide conference held in Washington, DC. Renewing our focus on federal advocacy and the strength of our grassroots presence, ABL members will explore the issues that affect them today, walk the halls of Congress, and hear from industry experts on the issues that matter to their business and their bottom line. From craft producers, to Fake ID, to quantifying the economic impact of ABL’s retailers throughout the country, the full program will allow retailers the opportunity to learn, grow, and affect change together.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

3:00pm - 5:00pm ABL Executive Committee Meeting (Executive Committee Only)

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

ABL BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING 9:00am - 10:00am ABL Board of Directors Breakfast sponsored by Beverage Media (Board of Directors Only) 10:00am - 11:30am ABL Advisory Council Meeting 11:30am - 2:30pm ABL Board of Directors Meeting 2:30pm - 3:30pm State Alcohol Policy Work Group Meeting ABL ANNUAL CONFERENCE 4:00pm - 4:45pm Seminar: Grassroots Lobbying & Beyond 4:45pm - 5:30pm How to Use the ABL Economic Impact Study 5:30pm - 6:00pm Update - The ABL Federal Affairs Effort 6:00pm - 8:00pm Welcome Reception sponsored by NABI 8:00pm - 9:30pm ABLPAC Reception (PAC Members Only)

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Schedule At a Glance

MONDAY, JUNE 10

8:00am - 9:00am Breakfast GENERAL SESSION 9:15am - 9:30am Welcome from Chuck Ferrar, President, ABL 9:30am - 9:45am Industry Awards 9:45am - 10:30am Political Speaker 10:30am - 11:15am Key Issues with Industry Leaders 11:15am - 12:00pm Political Reporters Roundtable 12:00pm - 1:15pm Annual Luncheon sponsored by MillerCoors 1:30pm - 2:30pm Fake ID: What Licensees Need to Know 2:30-4:00pm Understanding New Healthcare Laws CONCURRENT SEMINARS 3:15pm - 4:00pm Drunk Driving Policy Industry Trends 4:00pm - 5:00pm Craft Producer Roundtable 7:00pm - 7:45pm ABL Top Shelf Banquet - Cocktail Reception & Craft Spirit Tasting sponsored by DISCUS 7:45pm - 9:30pm ABL Top Shelf Banquet - Dinner & Awards* sponsored by DISCUS * Jacket Suggested

TUESDAY, JUNE 11 7:30am - 9:30am 8:00am - 1:00pm 9:00am - 5:00pm 5:00pm - 7:00pm

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Capitol Hill Visit Packet Pick-Up Industry Advisory Board Meetings (Invited Guests Only) Capitol Hill Visits (Business Attire) ABL Congressional Reception

Highlights: Sunday, June 9 Seminars

Grassroots Lobbying & Beyond will discuss how beverage retailers can become better “citizen lobbyists” when interacting with members of Congress and elected officials in their home states. The presentation will take into account that many ABL members are already actively engaged in civic and political discussions. This seminar, presented by New York lawyer Adrian Hunte, will discuss the distinction between direct lobbying and grassroots lobbying as well as tactics of advocacy and strategies for influence by direct and indirect methods, timing, and the need to answer question, “Why would this lawmaker or official give me his/her vote on an issue?”

Using the ABL Impact Report will cover the release of the 2012 Economic Impact Study of America’s Beer, Wine and Spirits Retailers, which identified and detailed the contributions beverage licensees make to America’s economy, the jobs create, the tax burden they carry and the econiomic impacts of lowering the legal BAC. John Dunham and Sean Reilly of John Dunham & Associates, the firm that conducted the study, will lead the seminar and share with retailers how they can best use it when talking to policymakers.

John Dunham

The ABL Federal Affairs Effort will focus on ABL’s efforts on Capitol Hill and in Washington, DC as it represents its members before Congress. ABL Execuitve Director John Bodnovich will review ABL’s policy agenda and bring attendees up to speed on current legislative initiatives and adovcacy efforts that the association in undertaking. The review will also prepare ABL members for meeting with their elected officials on Tuesday.

Product & Networking OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION sponsored by NABI On Sunday evening, conference attendees will join the National Association of Beer Importers (NABI) for a reception featuring its members products. As the foremost assocation for beverage importers, NABI’s members include AB-InBev, Crown Imports, Diageo, Heineken USA and many other importers of beer, wine and spirits. NABI and its members have hosted the opening night reception at each of ABL’s annual meetings and ABL is excited to showcase the world of products that its members represent.

It’s never been easier to register for the ABL Conference...

- Online registration is now open

- Register using a credit card online

- Book your hotel during the registration process

Visit www.ABLUSA.org/Conference.

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abl conference 2013

Highlights: MONDAY, JUNE 10 Panels

Awards

The Key Industry Issues Panel will include alcohol industry leaders sharing insights on the issues that matter most to them as distillers, brewers and wholesalers. With the landscape of the industry changing every day, these industry association leaders will add depth and background to the discussion.

The Political Reporters Roundtable will feature those whose job it is to cover Capitol Hill and political Washington, as they offer their insights on the broader world of politics. The panel will be hosted by Mike Melia, National Affairs Editor of PBS Newhour, and feature reporters from POLITICO and other national news outlets.

The Craft Producers Panel will discuss the growth of small producers and the impact that has had on the industry, especially over the last five years. Bill Butcher of Port City Brewing Company and Wes Henderson of Lousiville Distilling Company will be

In recognition of hardworking ABL members who consistently demonstrate excellence in their businesses and their communitites, ABL will proudly present the Brown-Forman Retailer of the Year Awards at this year’s conference. ABL has partnered with Brown-Forman for more than eleven years to highlight outstanding retailers and this year will be no different.

joined by a craft winemaker to share their perspectives on craft products.

Products & Networking The MillerCoors Annual Luncheon will once again offer attendees a chance to recharge their batteries and learn more about the products of this long-time supporter of the ABL Conference.

Seminars Fake ID: What Licensees Need to Know, featuring Martin Johnson, will discuss best practices for licensees to protect themselves against false identification. A retired detective from Howard County, Maryland, Johnson is an expert in document identification, and certified as an educator by the Department of Homeland Security.

He teaches law enforcement officers, retail industry representatives, and other government agents how to detect fraudulent identity documents, and has examined thousands of identity documents involved in criminal cases and has personally investigated hundreds of other cases involving counterfeit identification.

Understanding New Healthcare Laws will be led by Neil Trautwein, current Vice President of the Employee Benefits Policy Council at the National Retail Federation (NRF). With the confusion and uncertainty surrounding the effect of the Affordable Care Act on small business owners and retailers, this seminar will explain the law’s impact on a beverage retailer. Trautwein heads NRF’s work on health care reform and other benefits-related legislation and regulatory issues, and has testified before Congress on healthcare law implications for retailers. He is currently focused on developing short-term tactics and long-term strategy aimed toward helping retailers provide workers with competitive benefits while controlling costs.

Additional Seminars are being planned. Please check the ABL website - www.ABLUSA.org - for updates.

Top Shelf Award Banquet The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) will once again sponsor the ABL Top Shelf Award Banquet, which will feature a reception with a craft spirits tasting followed by dinner. The guest of honor for the evening is Craig Wolf, President and CEO of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and 2013 ABL Top Shelf Award honoree. Craig is being recongized for his many years of service to the beverage industry all while serving our country as a Major in the United States Army Reserve and veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Craig Wolf

Highlights: TUESDAY, JUNE 11

ABL Climbs Capitol Hill

ABL members from across the country will have the opportunity to visit members of Congress on Tuesday, June 11. ABL staff is assisting conference attendees to arrange meetings with legislators and their staff, bringing the message of America’s Beer, Wine & Spirits Retailers directly to the Halls of Congress. Conference attendees are encouraged to indicate their availability for visiting Capitol Hill on Tuesday to share what they have learned as an independent business owner and member of ABL. Constituents meeting face-to-face with the men and women of Congress is the best way to convey your concerns or express your support for the issues facing the beverage alcohol industry.

Follow us on Twitter: @ABLConference and @ABLUSA

Capitol Hill Reception Join ABL and members of the industry for the closing event of the 2013 ABL Conference: a Congressional Reception in the Rayburn House Office Building following the day’s meetings This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the company of the people who work on important issues in Washington every day.

Hotel & Registration HOTEL

The Hilton Alexandria Old Town is the official hotel for the 2013 ABL Conference. It is located at 1767 King St in Alexandria, VA., 22314. The room rate is $209++ per night.

ABL encourages you to make hotel reservations early as the room block is limited.

The Hilton will be directly handling all room reservations.

- Call the Hilton Reservation Office at (800) 445-8667 and indentify yourself as an ABL Conference participant.

- Visit www.ABLUSA.org/Conference to make a reservation online

TRAVEL

The hotel is near Reagan National Airport (DCA) and just steps away from the King St Station on the Yellow Line of D.C.’s METRO subway system. Located in the historic and vibrant King Street neighborhood, the Hilton Alexandria Old Town hotel is one of the most convenient hotels in Alexandria, VA when visiting Washington, DC.

REGISTRATION

Registering for the ABL Conference has never been easier!

Take advantage of ABL’s new interactive conference registration page by visiting www.ABLUSA.org to register online with a credit card! For more information, contact the ABL office at (888) 656-3241 or info@ablusa.org.

The last day to make hotel room reservations is Thursday, May 9.

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membership memo Affordable Care Act Guidlines for Beverage Retailers The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), which is also commonly referred to as the Affordable Care Act, was signed into law on March 23, 2010. In June 2012, the Supreme Court effectively upheld the law, which will affect how Americans receive and pay for their personal medical care in the future. In addition to individuals, the law also has implications for small business owners – including retail beverage licensees. Here’s some more background on healthcare reform and how it might impact your business.

2010

• A temporary small business tax credit became available for six years for certain small businesses that provide qualified health coverage.

• Employers had the opportunity to elect grandfather status on existing coverage • Allowed young adults up to age 26 to be covered on their parents’ plan The following were prohibited: • Lifetime benefit caps on coverage and rescissions • Preventative services coverage with cost-sharing • Pre-existing exclusions for children 19 and younger

2011

Temporary Small Business Tax Credit (2010-2016)

• Only firms with 10 or fewer employees receive the full credit. For firms with 11 to 25 employees, the credit is reduced. Firms with more than 25 employees are ineligible for the credit.

• Only firms that pay their workers an average wage of $25,000 or less are eligible for the full credit. The credit is reduced as the average wage goes up, phasing out at $50,000.

• Only firms covering 50% or more of insurance costs will be eligible.

Beginning in 2014, if firms qualify for the tax credit, insurance coverage must be purchased in a Small Business Health Options Program

• States adopt exchange legislation, implement exchanges (2011-2013)

Timeline for Healthcare Policies Taking Effect

2012

• Businesses would have been required to send additional Form 1099s for every business-to-business transaction of $600 or more, but this provision was repealed. Previous Form 1099 reporting requirements still exist.

• Employers were required to provide a Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) to employees during open enrollment season. Health insurance plans and health insurance plan sponsors designed the summaries, but employers were required to distribute the summaries to employees.

2013

• The Medicare payroll tax for incomes above $200K ($250K joint) increases 0.9 percent.

• A new 3.8% Medicare investment tax will be imposed on investment income for higher-income $200K ($250K joint) taxpayers.

• Employers will be required to report the cost of employee health benefits on W-2s for tax year 2012 (both employer and employee contribution).

Until the IRS issues additional regulations, employers that file less than 250 Form W-2s will not be required to report this information.

• Employers must determine size – whether they will be considered “large” or “small” – for the requirements of the employer mandate. Penalties will not occur until 2014, but a large employer is defined as an employer who employed an average of at least 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees on business days during the preceding calendar year. For 2014, the preceding calendar year is 2013. Size is determined monthly by adding the number of full-time employees to the number of FTE employees.

2014

• Employer mandate & penalties begin, requiring employers to provide insurance or pay penalties. The penalties are based on the number of full-time employees during the preceding calendar year; whether the firm offers coverage to full-time employees; whether coverage is “affordable” and meets “minimum value;” and whether one or more full-time employees qualify for a government subsidy.

• Increasing Small Business Tax Credit: The small business tax credit is raised and there is also a % credit for small nonprofit organizations.

• Health insurance exchanges open to individuals and small businesses with up to 100 employees, although states may limit the small employer definition to no more than 50 employees until 2016.

• Individual Mandate Begins: Most people who can afford it will be required to obtain basic health insurance coverage or pay a fee to help offset the costs of caring for the uninsured Americans. The penalty fee begins at $95 or 1 percent of household income, whichever is greater.

• Insurance companies will be prohibited from refusing to sell or renew coverage because of pre-existing conditions, and from charging more because of gender or health status.

2015

• Individual Mandate Penalty Fee increases to $325 or 2 percent of income, whichever is greater.

2016

• Individual Mandate Penalty Fee increases again, to $695 or 2.5 percent of income, whichever is greater.

• Small business (SHOP) health insurance exchanges must open up to businesses with up to 100 employees.

2017

• Individual Mandate Penalty Fee is based on 2016 levels and will rise according to a cost-of-living adjustment.

• States may allow large employers to enter exchanges.

2018

• High-dollar or “Cadillac” tax begins on high-cost health insurance plans.

• Individual mandate tax penalty is based on 2016 levels and will rise according to a cost-of-living adjustment.

State Healthcare Exchanges

2011-2013: States adopt exchange legislation to establish Health Insurance "Exchanges," which are virtual marketplaces in which individuals and small employers can shop for, compare, and enroll in health insurance coverage. Individuals and certain businesses (100 or fewer employees) will be able to purchase health insurance coverage through exchanges beginning in 2014. There are three paths for this: • States will establish both an individual exchange (Exchange) and a small business exchange (SHOP Exchange).

• The federal government will establish a default exchange or hybrid federal state exchange.

• Private exchanges may also be available for employers of all sizes.

Measuring Size of Business (2013)

Though there will be no penalties until 2014, employers must determine the size of their business – whether they will be considered “large” or “small” – for the requirements of the employer mandate. A large employer is defined as an employer who employed an average of at least 50 fulltime equivalent (FTE) employees on business days during the preceding calendar year. For 2014, the preceding calendar year is 2013. Size is determined monthly by adding the number of full-time employees to the number of FTE employees.

Definitions

• Full-time employees: Individuals who have worked an average of 30 hours per week (130 total monthly hours).

• Full-time equivalent: Total hours worked by part-time employees each month/120.

• Part-time employees (new counting requirements): Part-time employees’ hours will be converted into FTE employees for determination of employer size and penalty liability. EXAMPLE: If six employees each work five hours per week, they will count as if the firm had one additional FTE employee.

• Measuring employees work time: Employers may measure monthly hours or utilize a look-back period of 3-12 months to determine whether average employee hours exceeded 30 hours per week (130 hours per month).

• Notification: Employers must notify each employee at the time of hiring with written notice of exchange availability.

Beverage licensees are strongly encouraged to consult both their insurance broker and tax advisor when considering the PPACA. An insurance professional will best be able to help them determine any changes that should be made to their current health plan(s) and what their options are as the PPACA is implemented. A tax professional will best be able to discuss ownership considerations and number of employees (or full-time equivalent employees) a business entity has.

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feature Join ABL in Celebrating the 60th Annual Tavern Month this May

Local, Independent Bars & Taverns Reflect America’s Rich Tradition of Hospitality This May, America’s Beer, Wine and Spirits retailers invite you to join millions of hardworking men and women of the bar and tavern industry to celebrate the 60th Annual Tavern Month. Taverns represent one of the longeststanding and best-known institutions in American life that exemplify an entrepreneurial spirit and the fierce independence of locally-owned small business.

The history of the American tavern dates back to the earliest days of the formation of the American experiment. It was often a tavern that was one of the first buildings erected in a settlement when the British settlers landed. Taverns would continue to serve an important role in building support for the American Revolution, On-premise beverage before evolving licensees provide 983,230 into the variety jobs and $19,901,811,300 of over 300,000 independently-owned in wages. bars and taverns that dot our cities and towns today They provide and keep this very American tradition of $56,518,986,400 in total community alive.

Bars & Taverns

By The Numbers

economic impact.

“Each year, we Along with off-premise call on retailers, beverage everyone who has licensees contribute ever $14,709,014,600 in stepped foot federal taxes, and inside $16,302,363,000 in state their local bar and local taxes. or tavern, be it for their first job, part-time work tending bar or to simply meet up with friends

and family to share a beverage, to come together and celebrate the places and people who make those memories possible,” said John Bodnovich, Executive Director of the American Beverage Licensees.

“I challenge anyone to find a more engaged and hard-working group of businessmen and women than your average bar or tavern owner,” continued Bodnovich.

“The responsibilities that come with selling an agerestricted product mean that they can little to no margin for error in their businesses and take their jobs seriously.”

This month, when taverngoers raise their glasses, they will also be giving a boost to the economy. A recent economic impact report has shown that bars, taverns and other onpremise beverage alcohol retailers provide nearly one million American jobs and are responsible for over $56 billion in economic impact.

They also provide billions in tax revenue to federal, state and local governments.

“By supporting other industries and contributing to their local economies, it is clear that America’s bars and taverns represent

more than our history” said Bodnovich, “they represent America’s future.”

As visible members of their communities, independent bar and tavern owners continue to place a strong emphasis on providing responsible service by training employees and incorporating programs to promote responsibility.

By utilizing technology and working with law enforcement and regulatory groups, licensees continue to lead the way in responsible beverage consumption.

Tavern Month has been celebrated each May for 60 consecutive years by bars taverns throughout the country, as well as ABL, the largest national trade association dedicated to supporting and promoting the beverage alcohol retail community, and its onpremise predecessor, the National Licensed Beverage Association. ABL is joined by its state and local bar & tavern association affiliates this year to spread the word that May is Tavern Month! |

ABL INSIDER | SUMMER 13 |

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affiliate news ABL State Affiliates Flex Their Muscle as State Legislative Sessions Peak ALASKA Anchorage CHARR Gets Extended Bar Hours, Not Service

After an extended conflict, a compromise has been reached in Anchorage’s entertainment district. After Downtown Assemblyman Patrick Flynn proposed a closing time of an hour earlier, a “safety hour” has passed. Rather than all patrons leaving bars, taverns, and restaurants at closing time, the establishments would have the option of closing one hour later.

The establishments can serve food or drink, but no beverage alcohol can be served 3 a.m. - 4 a.m.

ABL’s affiliate in the area, Anchorage CHARR, worked with the city to keep bars, taverns, and restaurants open for their existing hours, while alleviating problems of overcrowding and taxi shortages at 3:00 a.m. The measure passed 10-1, and will be revisited in a year.

COLORADO CLBA Wins Beer in Grocery Battle

Colorado’s House Bill 1178, which would have allowed grocery and convenience stores to sell craft beer, was killed by its own sponsor this March. Colorado, which only allows “near beer” (under 3.2% ABV) on grocery shelves, has seen bills fullstrength beer on grocery shelves for the past several congressional sessions, at least since 2009.

The bill would have also allowed for an additional four liquor licenses to sell all beer per city grocery store, greatly increasing the number of outlets available.

ABL’s Colorado affiliate, Colorado Licensed Beverage Association, joined the Colorado Brewers Guild opposed the bill, which both believed would adversely affect the state’s beer market and allow minors increased access to beverage alcohol.

FLORIDA Craft Distillers Call for Direct Sales On Site

The Florida Retail Beverage Council has opposed measures in the leglisatures that would allow small distillers, those making less than 75,000 gallons per year, to sell direct to the consumer at their sites.

In an initial subcommittee vote this March, the bill was opposed 7-6 by State Representatives, but the subcommittee ultimately decided to reconsider the bill and possibly include bottle limitations. No further action has yet been taken.

The bill is opposed by Florida wholesalers, as well. Also proposed in Florida are bills to allow craft brewers to sell 64-ounce growlers, legalize wine kegs.

INDIANA & TEXAS Sunday Sales Bills...Again

After months of lobbying from grocers and convenience stores, the Indiana

House has declined to consider a bill to allow Sunday sales of beverage alcohol throughout the state. ABL’s affiliate, the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers, opposed the measure, stating that their independently-owned liquor stores would lose revenue.

While the hearing that took place emphasized convenience for grocery shoppers, opinion pieces that throughout the state indicated public will against the expansion of liquor sales in Indiana.

Several were written by IABR members and IABR’s Executive Director, John Livengood.

In Texas, a similar bill was proposed to allow Sunday sales of liquor, while sale of beer and wine are already permitted within the state. Critics of the bill claimed it was the first step toward expansion of the sale of liquor into grocery stores.

The Texas Package Store Association, and ABL Affiliate, testified against the bill at a hearing in March. Texans currently have the opportunity to purchase liquor 66 hours per week, while this would have expanded sales to 76 hours per week by expanding store hours in addition to adding the extra day. Similar bills have been introduced in the last three sessions, but none have made it out of committee.

“I think the notion that young kids will not drink wine or will not drink something more expensive is a myth,” said Roger Donoghue, legal counsel for the Massachusetts Package Stores Association, told the WWLP news. “It’s a product that should be consumed and enjoyed by people who are over 21-years and who consume it responsibly and we think that the way the law currently exists does that.”

Masschusetts is one of eleven states that limits direct shipment of wine.

MONTANA Tavern Association Calls for Taprooms to Obtain Liquor Licenses

ABL Affiliate the Montana Tavern Association has called for a bill to require breweries with taprooms to apply for a retail liquor license. Many of these brewers carry a restricted license, but offer beer, food, and entertainment in their establishments. This would lift restrictions on hours and service within the taprooms, putting them on equal ground with licensed on-premise retailers in the state.

Many responses to the bill have been hyperbolic, claiming that the Montana Tavern Association is attempting to shut down craft breweries throughout the state.

However, Jason Grubbs, Montana Tavern Association Director, and a tavern owner, told the Billings NBC affiliate KULR8 that the bill would be an opportunity for breweries to compete with bars directly.

“By being able to stay open from 8 till 2 and have the time perks and other perks that we have,” said Grubbs. “They have food, they have music, they have entertainment, and they have beer. Which to me is a bar,” he continued.

Montana follows Vermont with the second-highest per capita concentration for craft breweries in the country, according to data from the Brewers Association.

WISCONSIN TLW In Interlock Debate

The Tavern League of Wisconsin is opposing a bill that would change the penalties for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, including changes to the state’s policy on interlock devices. The ABL MASSACHSUETTS affiliate says that the focus should be on Direct Shipping Fight Heats up enforcing the laws that are currently on the books and treatment for repeat offenders. iMassachusetts, which does not currently “These are alcoholics. We need to look at allow direct shipment of wine into the state, has a new high-profile lobbyist for wineries. a way that provide meaningful treatment that makes sure that these individuals Former New England Quarterback Drew aren’t on our highways,” Scott Stenger, Bledsoe, who now owns a vineyard in a Wisconsin Tavern League lobbyist, told Washington state, wants to expand his ability to sell directly to his former fans, and Fox11 in Green Bay. | he has begun lobbying Beacon Hill to get there.

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feature State Alcohol Licensing Campaigns Throughout the country, there has been an emergence of coalitions that call for changing alcohol licensing laws or generally challenging the Three-Tier System. These groups are vocal and often specialize in savy social media campaigns that emphasize “consumer rights” or “convenience.” There are also ongoing educational campaigns that oppose changes to alcohol laws that could have a negative impact on public safety and local small businesses.

INDIANA “Project RAD” www.projectrad.com MINNESOTA “Minnesota Beer Activists” www.mnbeeractivists.com @mnbeeractivists www.facebook.com/MNBeerActivists

INDIANA “Hoosiers for Beverage Choices” www.changeitindiana.org @changeitindiana www.facebook.com/changeitindiana

PENNSYLVANIA “Coalition to End the Liquor Monopoly” www.noliquormonopoly.org @EndTheMonopoly www.facebook.com/CoalitionToEndTheLiquorMonopoly

KANSAS “Uncork Kansas” www.uncorkkansas.com @UnCorkKansas www.facebook.com/UnCorkKansas --------------------------------------------------“Coalition for Jobs & Consumer Choice” www.jobsforkansas.com @jobs4KS

NEW YORK “The Last Store on Main Street” www.lastmainstreetstore.com

CONNECTICUT “End Connecticut’s Blue Laws” www.endctbluelaws.org @endctbluelaws www.facebook.com/endCTbluelaws

KANSAS “Keep Kansans in Business” www.keepkansasjobs.com @keepkansasjobs www.facebook.com/keepkansansinbusiness ------------------------------------------“Protect Kansas Families” www.protectkansasfamilies.com @NoBoozeKS

MARYLAND “Marylanders for Better Beer & Wine Laws” www.mbbwl.org @MBBWL www.facebook.com/MBBWL

COLORADO “Coloradans for Convenience” www.coloradansforconvenience.com @CO4C www.facebook.com/CO4Convenience

KENTUCKY “Food with Wine” www.foodwithwine.org @Kyfoodwithwine

OKLAHOMA “Oklahomans for Modern Laws” www.okmodernlaws.com

TEXAS Open The Taps www.openthetaps.org @OpenTheTaps www.facebook.com/OpenTheTaps

TENNESSEE “Red White and Food” www.redwhiteandfoodblog.com @RedWhiteFood www.facebook.com/redwhiteandfood

Public Safety/Small Business Campaigns

KENTUCKY “Fighting Alcohol Consumption by Teens” www.factky.org

TENNESSEE “Stop Teen Drinking” www.stopteendrinkingtn.org

Convenience/Consumer Rights Campaigns

calendar of events April 14-17 NBWA Legislative Conference Washington, DC

June 19 Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers Golf Outing Indianapolis, Indiana

Sept 29-Oct 3 NCSLA Regional Conference Oklahoma City, OK

April 16-17 Responsible Retailing Forum Conference Milwaukee, WI

June 17 New Jersey Liquor Store Alliance Golf Outing

Oct 1-3 Alaska CHARR Convention Kodiak, AK

April 22 Ohio Licensed Beverage Association NE Ohio Bar Expo Cleveland, OH APR 22 Indiana Licensed Beverage Association 2nd Quarter Membership Meeting ILBA State Office Indianapolis IN April 28-30 WSWA 70th Annual Convention Orlando, FL May 15-19 NABCA Annual Conference Phoenix, AZ MAY 21-22 Beverage Marketing 20th Annual Beverage Forum June 3 Illinois Licensed Beverage Association Golf Outing

June 9-11 ABL Annual Conference Alexandria, VA June 10 Empires State Restaurant & Tavern Association Annual Golf Outing & Board Meeting

June 24-28 NCSLA Annual Conference Honolulu, HI July 15-17 Beer Institute Annual Meeting Chicago, IL July 20-23 Wine & Spirits Guild of America Summer Meeting Seattle, WA July 29-30 Texas Package Stores Association 66th Annual Trade Show & Convention Arlington, TX Sept 8-10 Illinois Licensed Beverage Association 127th Annual Convention Kankakee, IL Sept 9-12 Montana Tavern Association 58th Annual Convention & Trade Show Butte, MT Sept 23-25 WSWA Fall Membership Meeting Sept 29-Oct 2 NBWA 76th Annual Convention & Trade Show Las Vegas, NV

Oct 5 Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers Trade Show Michigan City, IN Oct 7-10 Tavern League of Wisconsin Fall Convention & Trade Show Green Bay, WI Oct 10-12 Great American Beer Festival Denver, CO Oct 14 Ohio Licensed Beverage Association Buckeye Bar Expo Columbus, OH Oct 16 Massachusetts Package Stores Association Trade Show Marlboro, MA Oct 20 NABCA Administrators Conference Williamsburg, VA Oct 21 Metropolitan Package Store Association Annual Dinner Howard Beach, NY

ABL INSIDER | SUMMER 13 |

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ILLINOIS Beverage Retailers Alliance of Illinois Illinois Licensed Beverage Association INDIANA Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers Indiana Licensed Beverage Association KANSAS Kansas Licensed Beverage Association KENTUCKY Kentucky Association of Beverage Retailers MARYLAND Maryland State Licensed Beverage Association MASSACHUSETTS Massachusetts Package Stores Association

MINNESOTA Tavern League of Minnesota MISSISSIPPI Mississippi Hospitality Beverage Association MONTANA Montana Tavern Association NEVADA Nevada Tavern Owners Association NEW JERSEY New Jersey Liquor Stores Alliance NEW YORK Empire State Restaurant & Tavern Association Metropolitan Package Store Association New York State Liquor Stores Association OHIO Ohio Licensed Beverage Association

BRONZE CardTronics Luxco Sidney Frank Importing Co.

OKLAHOMA Retail Liquor Association of Oklahoma RHODE ISLAND Rhode Island Liquor Stores Association SOUTH CAROLINA ABC Stores of South Carolina SOUTH DAKOTA Licensed Beverage Dealers of South Dakota TEXAS Texas Package Stores Association VIRGINIA Virginia Licensed Beverage Association WISCONSIN Tavern League of Wisconsin WYOMING Wyoming State Liquor Association WINE & SPIRITS GUILD OF AMERICA

SILVER Constellation Brands Moet Hennessy USA Monarch Beverage Company Patron Spirits Company Remy Cointreau USA

affiliate members

GOLD Brown Forman Castle Brands Charmer-Sunbelt Group Glazer’s, Inc. Pernod Ricard USA Republic National Distributing Company

associate members

PLATINUM Bacardi USA Beam, Inc. Distilled Spirits Council of the United States

ALABAMA Alabama Beverage Licensees Association ALASKA Alaska CHARR Anchorage CHARR ARKANSAS Arkansas Beverage Retailers Association COLORADO Colorado Licensed Beverage Association CONNECTICUT Connecticut Package Stores Association FLORIDA Retail Beverage Council of the Florida Retail Federation GEORGIA Georgia Alcohol Dealers Association

DIAMOND Beer Institute Diageo National Beer Wholesalers Association Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America

members, who number nearly 20,000, are comprised of on-premise and off-premise retailers who annually help infuse billions of dollars into the American economy. ABL represents the interests of American small business owners and a historical part of the American way of life. Many members are independent, family owned operators who assure that beverage alcohol is sold and consumed responsibly by adults. |

American Beverage Licensees is the preeminent national trade association for retail alcohol beverage license holders across the United States. Its

American Beverage Licensees 5101 River Rd Suite 108 Bethesda, MD 20816 (888) 656-3241 www.ablusa.org

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ABL INSIDER | SUMMER 2013 | News for America’s Beer, Wine & Spirits Retailers

2013 Conference Preview

A BL Goes Was t o hing ton