Beer business reopening under new ownership in Allegheny Township

A beer distributor shuttered for more than three years in Allegheny Township is set to reopen with a new name and owner.

The former Big Boys Beer at 5743 Leechburg Road closed in December 2018, after the death of owner Corey Snyder. Big Boys originally was started by Snyder and his brother, Jay.

It was last owned by Gary Borello of Vandergrift, who purchased it from the Snyders.

New owner Ryan Zampogna of Allegheny Township then bought it from Borello.

“He was selling it, so we bought it almost three years ago,” Zampogna said.

Zampogna shares a longtime friendship with the Snyder family, owners of The Snyder’s Bonfire restaurant, which is next to Big Boys.

Zamp’s Brew-Thru will open in about two to four weeks, with new signage along Route 56 featuring a rhino driving a car.

“That’s my nickname — Rhino,” Zampogna said.

Zamp’s will operate as a full-service beer distributor, with a drive-thru, walk-in availability, snacks, ATM, alcoholic slushies and a Lottery machine.

“There’s no other place to buy beer around here. People are saying good things. People have to travel either to Lower Burrell or Vandergrift for beer,” Zampogna said. “People are looking for convenience these days. The drive-thru will be busy.”

A Giant Eagle less than three miles away from Zamp’s sells beer, but under Pennsylvania state regulations, grocery and convenience stores are not permitted to sell beer by the case.

Joyce Hanz | Tribune-Review

A new drive-thru beer distributor is opening in Allegheny Township.

For Zampogna, 41, who works in the construction business, this is his first foray into distributing beer.

He grew up in Lower Burrell and graduated from Burrell High School in 1999.

His wife, Kelley, is supportive of the endeavor.

“It’s a great initiative. He’s working really hard to make this a successful business,” she said.

Allegheny Township Supervisor James Morabito said he’s thrilled to see another business in the township.

“This is such a welcome sight. Another business that our residents can support,” Morabito said. “This is just the beginning for many more businesses coming to Allegheny Township.”

“Morabito is trying to bring new businesses into the township. I think that’s what we need. He offered to help in any way,” Zampogna said.

Zamp’s will be open every day from 9 a.m to 9 p.m. There will be limited hours on Sunday, but those hours have not yet been determined.