CAMP HILL, PA (May 2026) – The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) announced that Abir Akhand, Industry Engagement Manager for Altria Group Distribution Company, has joined the PFMA Board of Directors.
Akhand is a member of Altria’s Industry Engagement team and leads advocacy efforts in Pennsylvania and across the Northeast. He joins the board with eight years of industry experience, including his recent work leading advocacy efforts throughout the Midwest.
Prior to his current role, Akhand managed retail and wholesale accounts based in Pennsylvania and supported operational initiatives for large multi-state retail accounts across the country. His background includes direct experience working with retailers and industry partners across multiple markets and regulatory environments.
“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.”
Outside of work, Akhand enjoys spending time outdoors with his two dogs, Jaxson and Tex.
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 about PFMA and its board members, visit: pfma.org/about-us/board-of-directors
About PFMA
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, a statewide trade association, advocates the views of more than 600 convenience stores, supermarkets, independent grocers, wholesalers and consumer product vendors. PFMA members operate more than 3,000 stores and employ more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians. For more information on PFMA, visit pfma.org.
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