The Do’s & Don’ts of Selling A Liquor Store


Dive into the art of a seamless sale with us at your side. Imagine transforming years of investment into a grand finale that not only celebrates your tenure but also rewards it. This isn’t just about closing a chapter; it's about orchestrating the perfect exit. With a splash of wisdom and a dash of strategy, the following Do's and Don'ts are your ingredients for a lucrative send-off. Whether you’re toasting to retirement or raising your glass to new ventures, let's ensure your liquor store’s story has the finale it deserves. Read on for the secrets to selling smart and selling successfully.


Do ensure your financial records are meticulous and transparent, offering a clear picture of the store’s performance. Buyers will place high value on the story of the numbers, especially in the past 2-3 years.

Don’t leave your books disorganized or outdated. Poor record-keeping can be a red flag for potential buyers.

Do maintain the appearance and upkeep of your store to make it more attractive to buyers. First impressions can go a long way and build trust and respect with a potential buyer.

Don’t allow your store to fall into disrepair or look outdated, as it could decrease the perceived value.


Do plan your exit strategy well in advance to maximize the sale price and ensure a smooth transition. You never know when potential health issues can arise and you want to be prepared for the worst yet expect the best.

Don’t wait until the last minute to sell. Rushing the process can lead to a lower sale price and a more stressful experience.

Do understand the value of your liquor license and how it impacts your sale price, given it’s often the most valuable asset.

Don’t underestimate the complexity of transferring liquor licenses or the impact of regulatory issues on the sale.


Do continue to drive business and show profitability up until the sale. A thriving business is more attractive to buyers.

Don’t let your store’s performance dip. Neglecting business operations can turn away potential buyers.

Do use a broker specialized in liquor store sales who can navigate the complexities of the industry.

Don’t try to handle the sale solo if you lack the time, resources, or expertise. It can lead to costly mistakes.

Do be prepared to provide prospective buyers with a well-thought-out value proposition for your store.

Don’t focus solely on current profits. Buyers are interested in growth potential and future opportunities as well. Know how to position your store for the highest profits.

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Selling your liquor store is more than a transaction; it's the culmination of your hard work and dedication. By adhering to these Do's and Don'ts, you position yourself for a sale that reflects the true value of your business. Remember, preparation and presentation are paramount. Maintain operational excellence, understand your store’s unique selling points, and partner with a broker who appreciates the nuances of the liquor store market.

Some owners will have buyers approach them directly when they aren’t really thinking of selling and throw out a high number to get the owner’s attention. In our experience, this number drops significantly as negotiations continue and the longer the deal stays open, the higher the chances of it not closing, leaving the owner wasting precious time and resources - we can help.

At Liquor Store Advisor, we’re committed to navigating you through a seamless and rewarding sale process. When you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to ensure your legacy thrives in the hands of its new owner. Reach out to us, and let's craft a strategy that honors your business's worth and secures your future success.


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Feedback From Clients

Why you should hire our liquor store brokerage.

Throughout the process Dan was thoughtful, respectful, and a great sounding board. He help negotiate a great deal and had a buyer for our chain of Three stores very quickly. At the end of the process there is no doubt in my mind why he put the word “advisor” in his businesses name.

- At​las Liquors

After owning my retail wine shop for 30 years, I was ready to retire but apprehensive about the daunting task of selling it. Within days of contacting Dan, he represented my business to prospective buyers and brought me 2 great offers.


- Susan F.

Dan is very calming and can get you from point A to point B - he knows how to deal with both sides and can get a deal across the finish line. At First I was hesitant about fees however, in the end, I wanted to give the team a bonus because of their great work!

- John L.

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