Importance of State Alcohol Regulation Highlighted during Congressman’s Visit to Indiana Warehouse

U.S. Congressman Andre Carson (IN-07) recently paid a visit to Monarch Beverage Company, Inc., located in Indianapolis, Indiana, during Congress’ Independence Day District Work Period. Congressman Carson toured the company’s technologically-advanced distribution center, which was completed in 2009, and learned about the contributions beer distributors make and the important role state-based alcohol regulation plays in Indiana.

“It’s a great experience for a member of Congress to see the work that distributors do on a daily basis, and for our employees to interact with their elected representative,” said Monarch Beverage Company CEO Phil Terry. “We’re happy that Congressman Carson was able to take the time to tour the warehouse and talk to some of our employees.”

The visit provided Terry an opportunity to update Congressman Carson on the policy issues of importance to America’s beer distributors. Many of the distributorship's employees were also able to extend a big thank you to Congressman Carson for demonstrating his support of state-based alcohol regulation by co-sponsoring H.R. 5034, the Comprehensive Alcohol Regulatory Effectiveness (CARE) Act. He is among more than 120 members of Congress who have co-sponsored the CARE Act since it was introduced in April.

Founded in 1947, the company’s beer division now represents more than 500 brands, including domestic brands as well as many of the country's best craft and import brands.

Monarch Beverage was named Beverage World magazine’s 2009 Beer Wholesaler of the Year in recognition of how the company “has stayed ahead of the curve through innovative marketing of emerging specialty brands – as well as major established ones – and implementation of the progressive technologies critical to getting the job done in the modern market environment," according to Jeff Cioletti, editor-in-chief of Beverage World.

Those who visit Monarch Beverage Company – or any of the 2,850 independent, licensed beer distributors throughout the United States – are able to witness firsthand the critical role beer distributors play in safely, efficiently and responsibly delivering beer through the regulated system of state controls. Beer distribution employees work hard to ensure that every case of beer can be traced at all times – from the moment it leaves a brewer or importer until the time it reaches a store shelf or bar tap. This licensed system provides transparency and accountability, which helps protect consumers.

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