BETHESDA, MD – With Small Business Saturday and the start of the busy holiday season, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) is encouraging everyone to recognize the important contributions of package liquor stores to local economies, communities, and responsible alcohol consumption.

With the Thanksgiving holiday kicking off the busiest time of year for the nation’s beverage alcohol retailers, the holidays provide an important opportunity to highlight the challenges and opportunities that these Main Street small businesses are working through in Washington, DC and in their home states and towns.

“Beverage retailers play an indispensable role in the economy, generating jobs, driving economic activity, and supporting their communities,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “As we recognize Package Liquor Store Month and the broader holiday season, it’s critical that Congress address key legislative priorities impacting our members.”

Among the priorities for beverage alcohol retailers is swipe fee reform, a pressing issue as credit card transaction fees remain a significant cost burden for small businesses and their customers.  ABL continues to urge Congress to pass the Credit Card Competition Act to bring transparency and competition to the payment processing system, reducing costs for retailers and consumers alike.

Additionally, beverage retailers are raising concerns about tariffs on imported alcohol products, which can lead to higher prices for businesses and consumers.  Tariffs hinder the ability of small retailers to deliver value to customers and further strain family-owned businesses already facing tight margins in an economy where consumers are as price conscious as ever.

Package liquor stores continue to serve their communities by providing a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits, while prioritizing efforts to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors.  As key components in the public safety equation in their communities, they remain vigilant in the face of efforts to dismantle regulations that ensure fair competition and a level playing field for licensed businesses, whether in statehouses or courthouses.

ABL once again salutes the outstanding efforts of package liquor store owners and their employees, who not only help make holiday gatherings memorable but also uphold their responsibility to ensure alcohol is sold safely and responsibly.

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