2017 Convention Program 2017 Convention Program - Final Web | Page 3

Texas Package Stores
Association
Greetings from TPSA President
Austin Keith
Welcome to the 70th Annual Texas Package Stores Association Convention & Trade Show! On behalf of the
Executive Committee, Board of Directors and our members, we welcome you back to Fort Worth.
The 2017 TPSA Convention & Trade Show is a catalyst for growth and opportunity for all of our members. TPSA
is excited to bring you a program packed with top industry experts, educational meetings, tasting sessions and a
sold-out trade show filled with long established brands as well as new products to help advance your business.
The beverage alcohol industry continues to get more and more competitive, and retailers looking to improve their
business need to get more innovative.
The most common theme throughout the 85th Texas Legislative Session is the threat posed to our family-owned
and operated retailers by big box stores. The TPSA office and lobby team worked tirelessly this legislative
session, representing retailers’ interest to combat corporate companies. The hope is that TPSA can help retailers
improve their customer relationships, increase product knowledge and improve profitability. Building a better
business can provide security against regulatory uncertainty.
The changes and threats to our industry continue to grow with controversy facing the three-tier system, evolving
trends in the retail environment and battles with state legislators over regulations. As a result of the challenges
and increased competition, TPSA has proven time and again how invaluable our membership is to OUR continued
success. We are stronger together - acting as a unified voice on a wide range of issues. With power in numbers
our voice will be heard loud and clear.
I want to thank the many wholesalers, suppliers and representatives who support TPSA as an Associate Member
and as hosts of various convention functions. Much of our success is due to their continued support.
Again, welcome you to the 70th Annual TPSA Convention & Trade Show. We look forward to creating new
relationships, strengthening existing ties and recognizing individuals who have contributed to our success.
TPSA is committed to promoting our motto “we support those who support us!“
2017 TPSA Convention-3