For Immediate Release

Contact:  Gino Renne | (240) 876-7701

February 26, 2022

 Statement on Russian Vodka

Gaithersburg, Md. - To stand in solidarity with Ukraine and educate the public about Russia’s ruthless invasion, UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO calls on County Executive Marc Elrich and the Alcohol Beverage Service (ABS) to cease stocking Russian-brand vodka and other products in our county’s retail liquor stores.

“We don’t want to touch the stuff right now.” said MCGEO president Gino Renne. “Ukranians are being hunted and killed by the government that Russian brands represent. These bottles should come off the shelves today. It is a small gesture of support and an opportunity to educate the public on what is happening when they see these brands are gone.”

MCGEO instead asks ABS to procure Ukrainian products to replace the Russian stock that is removed from shelves. 

“In these divided times, this atrocity unites county residents and our retail outlets should reflect the values held in our community.”

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Local 1994 represents 8,000 public employees in Montgomery County, Prince George's County and beyond. From its inception, UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO has fought to protect workers’ rights, negotiate fair wages and protect safety and security of workers.