Tuesday, September 29, 2026
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Add to Calendar: Add to Calendar 2026-09-29 11:00:00 2026-09-29 13:00:00 From Newspapers to Coca-Cola: Building a Legacy that Lasts ABARTA panel discussion: Charlie Bitzer, Erica Porter, and Nick BitzerTuesday, September 29, 2026 11:00 AM - 1:15 PM (11:00-12:00 registration, networking and lunch; 12:00-1:15 PM program)Michael Angelo's Winery | 5515 Broadview Road, RichfieldWhat does it take to build a family enterprise that not only survives across generations — but thrives? Join us for a candid panel conversation with Charlie Bitzer, Nick Bitzer, and Erica Porter of ABARTA — a third- and fourth-generation family business and a legacy spanning more than nine decades. As the 10th largest privately-owned Coca-Cola distributor in the United States (including the Cleveland area) and with a history of ventures spanning media, energy, food, and technology, ABARTA knows what it takes to grow,adapt, and endure. Together, our panelists will share how ABARTA has strategically diversified across industries, built governance structures that keep family and business aligned, and intentionally develops the next generation of leaders. Whether you are navigating your first generational transition or stewarding a legacy built over decades, this conversation will offer honest reflection and practical insights for any family in business together. Weatherhead School of Management Weatherhead School of Management America/New_York public
Event Details
ABARTA panel discussion: Charlie Bitzer, Erica Porter, and Nick Bitzer
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 11:00 AM - 1:15 PM (11:00-12:00 registration, networking and lunch; 12:00-1:15 PM program)
Michael Angelo's Winery | 5515 Broadview Road, Richfield
What does it take to build a family enterprise that not only survives across generations — but thrives? Join us for a candid panel conversation with Charlie Bitzer, Nick Bitzer, and Erica Porter of ABARTA — a third- and fourth-generation family business and a legacy spanning more than nine decades. As the 10th largest privately-owned Coca-Cola distributor in the United States (including the Cleveland area) and with a history of ventures spanning media, energy, food, and technology, ABARTA knows what it takes to grow,adapt, and endure. Together, our panelists will share how ABARTA has strategically diversified across industries, built governance structures that keep family and business aligned, and intentionally develops the next generation of leaders. Whether you are navigating your first generational transition or stewarding a legacy built over decades, this conversation will offer honest reflection and practical insights for any family in business together.