Spirits-based ready-to-drink cocktails have exploded in popularity over the last few years. Outdated laws keep convenience stores in many states from selling these products. In states like Texas, retailers are fighting for change.

Hosted by:

Jeff Lenard

About our Guests:

Paul Hardin, President & CEO, Texas Food & Fuel Association

Paul Hardin, CAE, is president & CEO of Texas Food & Fuel Association. A 30-year veteran in association management, Hardin previously served as executive director and CEO of the Texas Physical Therapy Association and has led non-dues revenue programs for the country’s largest state hospital and medical associations. He also is a former staff member of the Texas Grocery & Convenience Association, which merged with the Texas Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Store Association in 2012, forming what is known today as the Texas Food & Fuel Association.

Chris Swonger, President & CEO, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States

Chris Swonger is president & CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), the spirits industry’s top advocate in the nation’s capital, state capitals and foreign capitals around the globe. He also is the president & CEO of Responsibility.org, a national nonprofit funded by leading distillers to fight drunk driving and underage drinking, and promote responsible decisions about beverage alcohol.