November effort recognizes independent beer, wine, and spirits retailers

BETHESDA, MD – October 29, 2027 – This November, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) is recognizing Package Liquor Store Month by focusing on the service and local engagement that independent beverage retailers bring to their communities. ABL and its members will spread the message of “Local Stores. Local Trust.” by highlighting the businesses and employees that provide customers with an extensive selection of beer, wine, and spirits choices as the holiday season begins, and the impact they have on their neighborhoods.

“Trust is earned in the everyday work of running a package liquor store,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “It comes from listening to customers and staff, offering useful advice, and being a good partner with the broader beverage alcohol industry, regulators and policymakers. With November kicking off the holiday shopping and giving season, it’s important to recognize the independent beverage retailers who do that work in their communities across the country.”

U.S. small businesses continue to command substantial public confidence. Gallup reported in July that 67% of Americans expressed a great deal or quite a lot of confidence in small business. Package Liquor Store Month tells the local stories behind those relationships.

“The people who walk into an independent store are our neighbors,” said ABL President Nick Fede, Jr., a third-generation beverage retailer from East Greenwich, Rhode Island. “We want them to feel comfortable asking a question and confident in the help they receive. We also must uphold our end of the bargain of being a licensed business, which means checking IDs, following laws and regulations and making sure our employees understand the obligations that come with selling alcohol.”

The broader off-premise alcohol retail sector also makes a substantial economic contribution. Direct retail alcohol sales directly support 622,304 jobs, $25.2 billion in wages, and $60.0 billion in economic impact nationwide, according to the economic impact study by John Dunham & Associates. When including supplier and induced effects, the total economic contribution reaches $154.7 billion.

Throughout November, ABL, its state affiliates and retailer members will tell their stories as Small Business Saturday approaches on November 28. ABL encourages consumers to get to know their local independent beer, wine, and spirits retailer and support these businesses during November and throughout the holiday season.