America's Beer Distributors

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Since its inception in 1933, Dichello Distributors, Inc. has been a leader in its community by promoting the responsible and legal consumption of alcohol.  Based in Orange, Connecticut, Dichello plays a vital role in efforts to eliminate drunk driving, alcohol abuse and underage drinking by servicing the community through alcohol awareness and education initiatives.  Ed Crowley, president and chief operating officer of Dichello, believes the company’s responsibility initiatives are an invaluable asset to both its licensed retailer customers and consumers. 

Tony Lota, a semi-retired Dichello salesperson, spearheads the company’s community programs as the alcohol awareness coordinator.   As such, Lota works on several educational initiatives within Dichello’s territory, which includes Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and parts of Litchfield counties.  He carries out Dichello initiatives by partnering with Connecticut schools, colleges, families, licensed retailers and law enforcement.

One of Dichello’s most recent efforts has been the creation of an educational forum for both on- and off-premise accounts.  These forums feature Connecticut's Liquor Control director who discusses liquor laws for the state as well as nationwide insurance representatives who talk about liquor liability insurance.  Local police chiefs also participate, and Lota provides information on T.I.P.S. (Training For Intervention Procedures by Servers) seminars for bar or restaurant staff on how to identify and handle problematic situations. 

In addition, Lota represents Dichello as a member of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Board of Directors.  This position provides him with a platform to work with law enforcement to fight drunk driving.  “The police like to see these things,” said Lota.  “They know that while we do sell an alcoholic product, we are doing the responsible thing and it goes a long way with them.”

Dichello and its other Connecticut wholesaler counterparts work to promote designated drivers and seat belt use distributing posters to their retail accounts.  Since the program began in 2008, they have put up more than 3,000 posters and 11 billboards. 

America’s beer distributors are working to keep their communities safe.  If you are a distributor who sponsors a responsibility program – visit www.DistributorResponsibility.com today to spread the word about your company’s initiatives!

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