Southern Glazer’s, the world’s leading distributor of beverage alcohol, announced today the passing of its Chairman, Harvey Chaplin, on June 9, 2024, at the age of 95. Wayne E. Chaplin, Chief Executive Officer of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, expressed deep sorrow, saying, “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved father, Harvey Chaplin, our Company’s Founder and Chairman, and one of the icons of our industry.” Wayne continued, highlighting Harvey’s multifaceted influence as a leader, philanthropist, family man, and industry figure, emphasizing the profound impact he left on all who knew him.
Bennett Glazer, Executive Vice Chairman of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, echoed Wayne’s sentiments, emphasizing Harvey’s dedication to family, community, and fostering human capital as integral to business success. Bennett expressed pride in having Harvey as both a colleague and friend, extending condolences on behalf of the entire leadership team to Harvey’s family.
Harvey Chaplin’s legacy in the wine and spirits industry is unparalleled. He played a pivotal role in shaping the modern three-tier system and spearheaded the remarkable expansion and consolidation of the second tier. His vision for establishing a national presence to enhance wholesaler value propelled Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits to unprecedented growth across 45 U.S. markets and Canada. Even as his son assumed the role of CEO, Harvey remained deeply committed and involved in the business.
Born in 1929 in Brooklyn, New York, Harvey Chaplin began his career in the industry while still in high school, eventually ascending to senior executive positions at Schenley Industries and later joining Southern Wine in 1969. Over the years, he played key roles in the company’s operations, culminating in his appointment as Chairman and CEO in 1994. Following the merger of Southern Wine and Glazer’s Distributing in 2016, he assumed the role of Chairman of Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
Harvey Chaplin is survived by his wife, Roberta, and his children Paul, Wayne, and Terry, along with nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to various organizations, including the Harvey R. Chaplin Family Stroke and Chest Pain Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center, the Harvey R. Chaplin Central Building at Temple Beth Shalom Miami Beach, Florida, or the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University.
