Try-It Distributing, Inc.
Stephen L. Vukelic began bottling soft drinks in his native Lackawanna in 1928,to help meet the demand of thirsty Western New Yorkers during Prohibition.
More than 75 years later, Try-It Distributing Inc., a third-generation family
business, is one of the country's most respected beverage distributors.
When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, Stephen Vukelic began distributing beer (Phoenix was the company's major brand). In 1946, he added Budweiser and Michelob to his product list and since that time, Try-It has remained Western New York's exclusive distributor of Anheuser-Busch products.
Today, Try-It is run by second and third generations of the Vukelic family. Stephen's son, Eugene, serves as chairman and CEO. His five sons — E. Paul Vukelic (president and COO), Jeffrey S. Vukelic (executive vice president), Timothy J. Vukelic (vice president, sales support systems), Peter A. Vukelic (vice president, premium and high end products) and Matthew J. Vukelic (manager, delivery department) — all hold management positions with the company.
The company has undergone major changes since its founding 76 years ago. It has grown from 15 employees to 200; from four delivery trucks to 65; and has moved from a 20,000 square-foot building to a 140,000 square-foot state-of-the-art facility in the Buffalo suburb of Lancaster.
Try-It remains committed to the communities it serves. The company is a supporter of organizations and charities, including those benefiting children, and the firm's management and staff serve on numerous community boards and committees. The company encourages responsible consumption of alcohol and for years has spearheaded awareness programs in area schools and through the media.