Liquor stores are good businesses to open with the growing interest in specialty wines, handcrafted microbrews and premium spirits. Products made by independent producers are fashionable and attract customers willing to spend extra money for premium products.

In order to capitalize on this group of consumers, it is essential to partner your liquor store with producers who offer unique products. Fortunately, growing consumer demand in this sector has allowed many independent producers to thrive and distribute across the country.

The following resources will help you to get the products you need to open a successful liquor store:

1. Premium spirits are essential items in liquor stores.

2. A good liquor store should offer a variety of wines.

3. Tap into a growing demand for premium beers by selling handcrafted microbrews in your liquor store.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Attract an additional customer base to your liquor store with premium spirits

Many people look for premium spirits when choosing a liquor store. Carrying a large selection of name brand and lesser-known brands will help to create interest in your store.

I recommend: Hood River Distillers bottles premium whiskey, gin, rum, vodka, schnapps and Irish cream. This company's products would make a nice addition to your liquor store's inventory. Liquid International Premium Spirits offers a variety of spirits and wines. The company uses unique bottles for its products.

Stocking a selection of wines is essential for your liquor store

Across the United States, wineries are becoming popular. Consumers seek unique and flavorful wines of all varieties. Carry a selection of wines from small wineries to capitalize on this niche market.

I recommend: Honeywood Winery specializes in fruit wines. This Oregon company offers a selection of wines at reasonable prices. ZD Wines produces fine white and red wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Contact this California wine producer to learn about selling its products in your liquor store.

Carry microbrews in your liquor store to capture a growing consumer market

Microbrews continue to grow in popularity. These beers are generally darker, thicker and hoppier than brand-name beers. Large beer producers are even beginning to create their own microbrews. Carrying independent microbrews in your liquor store will help to attract a new generation of beer drinkers.

I recommend: The Deschutes Brewery is an Oregon beer maker that specializes in handcrafted microbrews. Contact the company to learn about selling its wide variety of beers. The New Belgium Brewing company offers several unique microbrews. The company is rapidly growing and its products would make a nice addition to any liquor store's inventory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before contacting any distributors, make sure that you have received all necessary federal, state and local licenses for your liquor store. Regulations vary by state and locality, so be sure to contact the regulatory authorities in your state.