The F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award honors individuals or companies that have made notable contributions to the small brewing sector. This year’s recipient, Ted Zeller, began working in beer law in 2006 and gained recognition through a landmark case against InBev, which led to a lasting collaboration with Dick Yuengling of D.G. Yuengling & Son.
In 2009, Zeller played a crucial role in opposing a wholesaler bill that threatened franchise protections and later helped unite key craft beer figures like Bill Covaleski and Chris Trogner to form the Brewers of Pennsylvania. He now serves as the organization’s general counsel, continuing his legislative and legal advocacy on behalf of the craft brewing community.
Zeller’s impact includes opposing harmful franchise law expansions, writing laws to simplify brand registration and sales processes, lowering beer sales tax, and defending brewers in key legal battles. His efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic also helped classify breweries as essential businesses. Industry leaders credit him with making Pennsylvania one of the most brewery-friendly states in the country.
