Layoffs Imminent In CT Beer Distributor Shutdown

EAST HARTFORD, CT — A beer and alcoholic beverage distribution, delivery, and warehouse company will close and cut 93 jobs, according to documents from the Connecticut Department of Labor. Rogo Distributors, part of Allan S. Goodman, Inc., will cease operations at its 65 Roberts St. plant with employees losing their positions on May 11.

Local Union 1035 of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 47 employees of the employees listed as union drivers and union warehouse.

The remaining employees include two executives, eight sales managers, 20 salesmen, three graphic designers, eight office staff, and five warehouse managers.

No bumping rights exist for the affected employees. Bumping rights allow for employees to take other roles in the company based on seniority. The shutdown will be permanent.

An attorney for Rogo told The Hartford Business Journal that the closure is related to the sale of the unit to an undisclosed company.

Allan S. Goodman has owned the property since 1986, The Journal-Inquirer reported. The family-owned company is a full service wine and spirits distributor with its headquarters located two miles north at 180 Goodwin St.

The company has been in business since 1933 and covers Hartford, Tolland, Windham, Middlesex, and New London counties. It delivers to over 2,000 accounts including package stores, restaurants, bars, casinos, hotels, and private clubs, according to the company's website.