Incoming President Mark Tanczos pledges greater consumer choice and convenience for Pennsylvania’s 1200 beer distributors
The Pennsylvania Malt Beverage Distributors Association (MBDA) elected a new President and slate of officers for the statewide organization at their quarterly board of directors meeting held this past Sunday in suburban Harrisburg. The Association, which was founded soon after the end of prohibition, represents Pennsylvania’s 1200 beer distributors in legislative, regulatory and industry affairs.
Newly elected President, Mark Tanczos of Tanczos Beverages in Bethlehem, PA, has owned and operated his distributorship since his father Edward’s retirement in 1987. He has also served on MBDA’s Board of Directors since 2003 and has served as Vice President of the Association’s District 9, which includes all of Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Northampton and Schuylkill Counties.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead our Association during this critical point in time,” said Tanczos. The Association is keenly focused on providing consumers with greater choice and convenience through changes in the law to allow for the sale of beer in smaller quantities and the ability to sell wine and spirits. “I look forward, with the help of my association, to work towards providing Pennsylvanians with full-service package stores like those found in many surrounding states. Neighborhood beer distributors who represent 1200 small businesses in the Commonwealth are uniquely qualified to bring about this long overdue change. We have a solid track record dispensing alcohol responsibly and actively supporting the communities we serve.”
Pennsylvania’s beer distribution industry employs 36,000 residents and has an economic impact of over $2.9 billion. They also provide more than $1.1 billion in taxes, licensing fees and other state and local government revenues. “With so much at stake, we look forward to working very closely with other industry stakeholders and trade associations, our General Assembly, and the PLCB to craft legislation that is fair and equitable to our customers and our members.”
Tanczos replaces long-time MBDA president David Shipula. “Our special acknowledgements and gratitude are extended to outgoing President Dave Shipula, of Wilkes-Barre, who has faithfully served this Association as President for 14 years.