What to Expect After Selling Your Liquor Store

Once your store has officially changed hands, there are a few final steps that can help make the transition as smooth and complete as possible. Some of these may be required, depending on your location or agreements, but many are simply recommended based on experience to help ensure everything is wrapped up cleanly and both sides move forward with clarity and confidence.

This checklist, featured in The Advisor – Issue #48, outlines post-sale steps that can help sellers close out remaining responsibilities and hand off the business with peace of mind.

1. Transfer or Terminate Contracts, Utilities, & Services

Sharing copies of contracts — like your POS system, security, or payment processing agreements — gives the buyer a clear view of what’s currently in place. It’s also a good time to reach out to your utility providers (electric, gas, water, internet, phone) to cancel or transfer accounts and to wrap up any services like snow removal or cleaning services, so everything is squared away on your end.

2. Share Vendor & Supplier Information

Most stores work with a range of regular suppliers — like beer, wine, spirits, grocery, and ice. Providing the buyer with a vendor list makes it easier for them to get up and running. You may also need to notify vendors of the ownership change and close out any accounts or end contracts that won’t be continuing after the sale.

3. Leased Equipment

If you have any leased equipment (like ATMs, draft systems, or coolers), make sure to check the terms of each agreement and coordinate with the provider or buyer on next steps. This helps ensure the lease is properly transferred, returned, or closed out — so you’re not responsible for it after the sale.

4. Staffing & Payroll

Coordinate with your payroll provider to close out payroll and issue final checks to any employees under your business. You’ll also need to cancel your workers’ compensation insurance and, if you’re formally closing your employer account, notify the appropriate state agencies.

5. Close Financials

Close business bank accounts, cancel credit card processing, and terminate insurance policies (general liability, liquor liability, etc.). If your store had a lottery license, notify the appropriate authority to cancel or transfer it.

We know how much time and energy goes into selling a business — and we’re here as a resource to help you finish strong, stay organized, and step away knowing everything has been handled properly.

Click here to read April’s newsletter: The Advisor – Issue #48

What to Expect After Buying a Liquor Store

Taking ownership of a liquor store is an exciting new chapter — and a chance to make the business your own. Based on our experience working with hundreds of store owners, the following steps are recommended to help you establish efficient operations, maintain compliance, and build a strong foundation from day one.

This guide, featured in The Advisor – Issue #48, highlights operational steps that are easy to overlook in the planning process — but essential to hitting the ground running with clarity and confidence.

1. Utilities, Services & Access

Contact utility providers — electric, gas, water, internet, and phone — to transfer accounts into your business name. Verify activation dates and billing access. Arrange regular services such as trash removal, cleaning, snow removal, and maintenance. Update store access by rekeying locks, resetting alarm codes, updating safe combinations, and ensuring cameras and ID scanners are working properly. These measures support regulatory compliance and help prevent underage sales.

2. Vendor Management

Connect with applicable product suppliers listed by the seller, including alcohol distributors, grocery and ice vendors, and ATM operators. Submit any required credit applications to open accounts and establish delivery schedules.

3. Licenses & Compliance

Ensure all required and/or applicable licenses such as liquor, lottery, tobacco, and nicotine delivery systems — are active and clearly displayed. Staying organized and up to date with regulatory requirements is essential for businesses in this industry.

4. Staffing, Training, Payroll & Insurance

Set up payroll under your new business entity, whether retaining staff or hiring new. Register for state and federal employment taxes, secure workers’ compensation insurance, and ensure all staff hold valid TIPs certifications or equivalent training. This training isn’t just a formality — it’s an essential part of running a responsible, well-managed operation. This certification helps staff manage compliance-related situations, recognize signs of intoxication, and support responsible alcohol sales.

5. Banking & Payment Processing

Open a business bank account and set up credit card processing. Confirm that your POS and merchant services are connected, tested, and fully functional before opening.

We know there’s a lot to manage in the early days of ownership, which is why we’re here as a resource — to help simplify the transition, answer questions as they come up, and support your long-term success.

Click here to read April’s newsletter: The Advisor – Issue #48

The Investment That Helps You Sell Smarter: Breaking Down Our Fee

In this industry, every move matters. When it comes time to sell your liquor store or liquor license, choosing the right partner can make all the difference. Working with Liquor Store Advisor and Liquor License Advisor means gaining access to a trusted team with decades of experience, a powerful network of qualified buyers, and a deep understanding of what drives successful transactions.

Our fee reflects the hands-on expertise, strategic marketing, and full-service support we provide from start to finish. In many cases, our involvement not only leads to stronger offers — it also saves time, avoids costly missteps, and maximizes your final outcome.

Specialized Experience

Backed by thousands of successful transactions across multiple states, our team brings decades of experience guiding sellers at every level — from independent operators to national retail groups. We understand the valuation, licensing, legal, and operational complexities that make liquor transactions distinct. That insight allows us to help you price strategically, prepare with clarity, and close with confidence.

Operational Execution

Selling a liquor store or license isn’t just about finding a buyer — it’s about managing dozens of behind-the-scenes steps most sellers don’t have time to think about. From licensing paperwork and board hearings to city filings and timeline logistics, we handle the details that keep deals moving. We keep the timeline moving so you can focus on the finish line.

Marketing and Buyer Access

We don’t wait for buyers to find you — we bring your listing directly to serious, qualified prospects. Our outreach includes curated email campaigns, targeted digital marketing, and direct calls to pre-vetted buyers. Many transactions are matched before the listing even goes public through our Preferred Buyer List, which includes individuals, corporations, and investment groups actively looking for their next opportunity.

Communication and Transparency

We believe communication is everything. You’ll always know what’s happening, what’s expected next, and where things stand. From day one to closing day, we keep you informed — no guessing, no chasing. Our process is built on clarity, responsiveness, and a commitment to keeping things straightforward and stress-free.

Click here to read April’s newsletter: The Advisor – Issue #48

Champagne Problems: Where It Stands and Where It’s Going

Looking Back to 2024: Champagne Sales Lost Their Sparkle

In 2024, Champagne shipments declined by nearly 10% to 271 million bottles, according to the Comité Champagne. This downturn was primarily attributed to global economic uncertainties, inflation, and geopolitical conflicts, which reduced consumer enthusiasm for celebrations and spending on luxury beverages.

Additionally, LVMH, a leading Champagne producer, reported a 15% drop in sales during the first half of 2024. Adverse weather conditions, including frost and excessive rainfall, affected grape harvests and production, adding further pressure to the industry. Many consumers felt there was little reason to celebrate, leading to decreased demand for luxury beverages.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Champagne’s Path Forward

As the industry enters 2025, Champagne producers remain cautiously optimistic, though consumer spending habits are unpredictable. With ongoing inflation and shifting financial priorities, demand for luxury beverages may continue to fluctuate.

To adapt, industry leaders are repositioning Champagne as an affordable luxury, encouraging consumers to enjoy it beyond special occasions—from casual dinners to weekend brunches. Sustainability and organic production are also expected to gain traction as younger consumers prioritize eco-friendly and health-conscious choices. Meanwhile, the rise of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic alternatives continues to challenge traditional Champagne sales.

Climate change poses long-term risks for the industry. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, frost, drought, and excessive rainfall continue to disrupt grape yields in the Champagne region. In response, producers are investing in sustainable vineyard management, regenerative agriculture, and soil conservation practices to protect their crops and ensure long-term viability.

Despite these challenges, Champagne brands are reshaping their messaging to emphasize everyday indulgence rather than limiting consumption to major celebrations. Some producers are also experimenting with lighter, organic, and more accessible Champagne options to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving market.

Click here to read February’s newsletter: The Advisor – Issue #46

Super Bowl Spotlight: How Non-Alcoholic Beverages Are Changing the Game 

For the past few years, the rise of non-alcoholic adult beverages has been one of the most discussed trends in the industry—and one Liquor License Advisor has covered extensively in our newsletters. From shifting consumer habits to major brands investing in alcohol-free alternatives, this movement has been impossible to ignore. Now, with two major Super Bowl commercials, the conversation has once again gained traction, signaling that zero-proof beverages are reshaping the market. 

The First Non-Alcoholic Beverage Super Bowl Ad (2023) 

In 2023, Heineken made history with Heineken 0.0, becoming not just the first non-alcoholic beer to be showcased, but the first non-alcoholic adult beverage overall to be advertised during a Super Bowl. This wasn’t just another commercial—it was a defining moment for the alcohol industry. While non-alcoholic beverages had already been gaining traction, their presence on one of the world’s biggest advertising stages signaled a mainstream breakthrough. Alcohol-free options were no longer just a niche trend; they had officially entered the mass-market conversation.

While 2024 saw a brief pause in zero-proof beverage advertising, the trend continued. The absence of these products during the 2024 Super Bowl doesn’t appear to be linked to a decline in sales—it was clear that brands would re-enter the national advertising stage soon.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages Return to the Super Bowl (2025) 

Non-alcoholic beverages made a strong comeback in 2025, with Michelob Ultra Zero featured in Michelob Ultra’s Super Bowl commercial. Though the ad focused primarily on its alcoholic beer, the inclusion of its zero-proof option was still a significant moment for the industry. Best Day Brewing also aired a commercial solely dedicated to its non-alcoholic beer, further reinforcing the category’s growing presence.

With these brands making major ad investments, the resurgence of non-alcoholic beverages in Super Bowl advertising wasn’t just a continuation—it was a clear signal that alcohol-free options, particularly beer, have become an influential category in the market.

What This Means for Your Business: Staying Competitive with Zero-Proof Beverages 

As visibility grows—especially through high-profile advertising like the Super Bowl—it’s clear that non-alcoholic beverages are reshaping the industry.

For liquor stores, bars, and restaurants, offering alcohol-free options is no longer optional—it’s essential. Staying competitive means embracing this shift, expanding product selection, and catering to the evolving preferences of your customers.

At Liquor License Advisor, we’re here to help you stay ahead in this evolving market. 

The Future of Partying:

Will Cannabis-Infused Beverages Spark a New Kind of “Buzz”?

It’s widely known that the younger generations are drinking less alcohol, opting more for no and low-alcohol options than their elders. With health and wellness being at the forefront of this movement, liquor store shelves continue to adorn and multiply the products available for sober shoppers, including non-alcoholic beer and other canned beverages, no and low-alcohol wine, as well as a growing amount of no and low-alcohol options within the hard liquor category. There’s even a new bottle shop, Dray Drinks, in Boston’s South End that features only non-alcoholic beverages, demonstrating a real interest in the sober lifestyle. Retailers are following what’s trending and offering more non-alcoholic products in their stores than ever before.

To read the full article – check out The Advisor Magazine – Issue 34.

 

Holiday Gifting: Top Gift Trends For 2023

December is here, which means that shoppers are out in full force seeking the perfect holiday gift for everyone on their list. Alcohol remains a popular go-to gift, but what will consumers purchase this year? BevAlcInsights by Drizly has taken the guesswork out for retailers by issuing their 2023 Holiday Gift Guide, which provides insight on what categories and brands retailers should enhance in their inventory based on 2023 sales and 2022 gifting trends – critical data for businesses to make the busiest time of year a success.

Spirits reached new heights during the 2022 holiday season, with bourbon, Scotch whisky, and reposado tequila topping the charts for gifting purchases; wine (Champagne and red varietals) was a close second. It seems that despite the current economic climate, the holidays still remain a time when consumers splurge more than they might otherwise, with premium products being high in demand.

To read the full article – check out The Advisor Magazine – Issue 34.

 

Inflation Impact On Holiday Alcohol Spending

Almost everyone you talk to these days brings up the alarming rise in the cost of just about everything, from gas to food to interest rates. Although people are making an effort to consciously monitor their budgets, the holiday season is upon us once again, and with that season inevitably comes an increase in spending, despite the current economic climate. Will consumers celebrate the holidays more frugally this year, or will they toss budgets aside? Consumer spending will affect both on and off-premise establishments as we wrap up 2023, a year that has found most Americans financially strapped, with no end in sight.

To read the full article – check out The Advisor Magazine – Issue 33.

 

Pressure On For Boston Pocket Licenses?

The Joint Committee On Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure held its hearing on Oct. 2, 2023 for proposed Bill H.3741 and Bill S.2380 which are seeking an additional 250 licenses across 10 specific zip codes in the next 5 years, should it become law.

One of the issues that arose during the hearing around the 1:00:45 to 1:05:50 mark addressed the term “pocket” licenses, which are inactive liquor licenses being held by owners and/or landlords which go against the city’s guidelines for license use.

To read the full article – check out The Advisor Magazine – Issue 33.

 

Have You Heard of Sober October?

How This Trend Is Impacting Alcohol Sales

We’ve all become increasingly familiar with Dry January, but have you heard of “Sober October”? According to a recent USA Today article, this movement is becoming increasingly popular as consumers make more health-conscious purchases, trading in their alcoholic beverages for non-alcoholic or low-alcohol substitutes. Some people are trying out this lifestyle shift for a month to consider the benefits of not drinking, while others are trading out a few beverages here and there; however, others are making the shift to eliminate all alcohol entirely.

To read the full article – check out The Advisor Magazine – Issue 32.

 

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