The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has appointed Abir Akhand, industry engagement manager for Altria Group Distribution Co., to its board of directors.
Akhand is a member of Altria’s industry engagement team and leads advocacy efforts in Pennsylvania and across the Northeast. He brings eight years of industry experience, including recent work leading advocacy efforts throughout the Midwest. Prior to his current role, he managed retail and wholesale accounts based in Pennsylvania and supported operational initiatives for large multi‑state retail accounts across the country.
“Abir brings strong advocacy experience and a clear understanding of the issues facing retailers and wholesalers across our industry,” said Alex Baloga, president and CEO of PFMA. “His experience in Pennsylvania and across the region will make him a valuable addition to PFMA’s board of directors.”
For independent grocers in Pennsylvania, PFMA’s board composition matters because the association advocates on issues such as swipe fees, SNAP policy, labor regulations, and alcohol sales. Akhand’s background in regulatory environments and multi‑state retail operations could help shape PFMA’s positions on tobacco and nicotine product sales – a category that independent grocers must manage carefully under varying state and local laws. His experience working with retailers gives him a practical perspective that benefits PFMA’s membership.
About PFMA
PFMA is the trade association representing Pennsylvania’s food and beverage industry.
PFMA’s board of directors represents leaders from across Pennsylvania’s food and beverage industry, including retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and service providers. Board members help guide the association’s advocacy, industry initiatives, and member engagement efforts across the commonwealth.
For more information, visit pfma.org.