Liquor Store Business Plan [Sample Template]
By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero
Home » Business ideas » Food Industry » Wine Business ideas » Wine & Liquor Store
Do you want to start a liquor store and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a sample small liquor store business plan template & FREE feasibility report.
The liquor business indeed has come to stay and this is thanks to the huge amount of liquor brands, as well as the people who purchase them. One of the best things that you could possibly do is to start a stress free business like the liquor one.
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A Sample Liquor Store Business Plan Template
1. industry overview.
One of the easy to enter and thriving business line that an entrepreneur how is looking towards starting a business of his or her own is to go into retailing business. The retail business is indeed a wide business of which liquor store business falls under.
Simply put, a liquor store is a retail shop that that is licensed to sell prepackaged alcoholic beverages usually in bottles to customers who are likely to take home or elsewhere to consume.
In the united states of America, the Liquor store business is a regulated business which is why The Twenty-first Amendment of the United States Constitution gives states the power to regulate the sale and consumption of liquor and other alcoholic beverages.
It is important to note that State regulations vary widely. Most states In the united states of America have laws that clearly define which alcoholic beverages must be sold in specialty liquor stores and which may be sold in other venues et al.
The Liquor, Beer and Wine industry is indeed a very large industry and pretty much thriving in all the parts of the world. Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 41,285 licensed liquor stores responsible for employing about 170,399 employees and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $48bn annually.
Activities in the Liquor, Beer and Wine Stores industry is on the increase in the last 5 years (i.e. from 2010 to 2015), even though the revenue generation have not shown remarkable growth within the stated period. Owing to the obvious increase in consumer confidence, more consumers have purchased high-margin products such as craft beer, boostingthe industry profitability .
Additionally, the legislation on the liquor, beer and wine market in many states in the U.S has allowed more entrepreneurs to open their own liquor stores. Revenue in the Liquor, Beer and Wine Store industry is expected to grow over the next 5 years as stores generate greater sales especially of high-margin products.
The Liquor, Beer and Wine Store industry is known to be heavily concentrated in the most densely populated regions and cities, mainly in the Mid-Atlantic, which comprises 24.2 percent of total liquor stores. Statistics has it that within the region, New York accounts for 8.5 percent of total liquor stores and trails only California which has 11.6 percent with the largest percentage of industry liquor stores.
So also, the Southeast and Great Lakes regions are heavily concentrated with industry liquor stores, and account for 17.9 percent and 15.4 percent of total liquor stores, respectively.
Comparatively large liquor stores, in terms of employment and revenue, tend to be located in the Mid-Atlantic region. Nevertheless, the industry is small business oriented, with 68.0 percent of liquor stores employing four or even fewer full – time employees per time.
Over and above, the liquor, beer and wine industry is a profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business; you can chose to start on a small scale in a street corner like the average mom and pop business or you can chose to start on a large scale with several outlets in key cities.
2. Executive Summary
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is a neighborhood liquor store that will be located in centralized area between a residential neighborhood and a busy business district in downtown Long Beach, California.
We aware that online in most states in the U.S California is one of the states that allows individuals to operate a liquor store and also sell other alcoholic drinks which is why we have decided to launch our liquor store in Long Beach, California.
We have been able to secure a 10,000 sq. ft. facility for our liquor store as required by the law in the United States of America.
We are in the liquor store business to make profits at the same to give our customers value for their money and time; we want to give people who patronize our liquor store the opportunity to choose not only from a wide range of both locally and imported liquors but also from a wide range of beers and other alcoholic drinks that are manufactured in the United States of America.
We are aware that there are several large and small liquor stores all around California, which is why we spent time and resources to conduct our feasibility studies and market survey so as to enable us locate the business in an area that will support the growth of the business and also for us to be able offer much more than our competitors will be offering.
We ensured that our facility is easy to locate and our outlet is well secured with the various payment of options. Much more than selling liquors and other alcoholic drinks of top brands in the alcohol industry, our customer care is second to none in the whole of Long Beach California.
We know that our customers are the reason why we are in business which is why we will go the extra mile to get them satisfied when they visit our liquor store and also to become our loyal customers and ambassadors. Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store will ensure that all our customers are given first class treatment whenever they visit our store.
We have a CRM software that will enable us manage a one on one relationship with our customers no matter how large the numbers of our customer base may grow to. We will ensure that we get our customers involved in the selection of brands that will be on our racks and also when making some business decisions that will directly or indirectly affect them.
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is owned by Mr. Jeffry Jordan who has successfully managed several bars and night clubs in Los Angeles and Las Vegas prior to opening his own liquor store. It is a family business that will be managed alongside his immediate family member.
3. Our Products and Services
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is going to operate a standard and licensed neighborhood liquor store that will retail a wide range of liquors, beers and wines just like any other licensed and standard liquor store in the United States and in any part of the world.
We are in the liquor retailing business to make profits and give our customers value for their money. These are some of the products that we will retail in our liquor store;
- Beers (Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite, Budweiser, Michelob Ultra-Light, Natural Light, Busch Light, Bush, Redds Apple Ale, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Keystone Light, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Bud Light Lime, Bud Light Platinum Lager et al)
- Locally Crafted Beers (Pale Beers, Amber Beers, Dark Beers, Hebrew Beers, Gluten Free, Organic Brews, Cider et al)
- Distilled spirits
- Non – alcoholic beverages
4. Our Mission and Vision Statement
- Our vision is to establish a one stop liquor store in Long Beach – California and in other cities in the United States of America.
- Our mission is to establish a liquor store business that will make available a wide range of liquors, wines and beers from top brands at affordable prices to the residence of Long Beach – California and other cities in the United States of America and Canada where we intend opening our outlets and selling our franchise.
Our Business Structure
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store do not intend to start a liquor retailing business like the usual mom and pop business around the street corner; our intention of starting a liquor retail business is to build a standard liquor store that will be a one – stop shop for liquors, beers and wines which is why we will ensure that we put the right structure in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.
We will ensure that we only hire people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stakeholders (the owners, workforce, and customers).
As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more especially when we start selling our franchise. In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;
- Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
- Store Manager
Merchandize Manager
Sales and Marketing Manager
Information Technologist
- Accountants / Cashiers
5. Job Roles and Responsibilities
Chief Executive Officer – CEO (Owner):
- Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
- Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
- Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
- Responsible for providing direction for the business
- Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
- Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
- Evaluates the success of the organization
Store Manager:
- Responsible for managing the daily activities in the store
- Ensure that the store facility is in tip top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
- Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
- Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
- Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
- Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
- Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
- Carrying out staff induction for new team members
- Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
- Interfaces with third – party providers (vendors)
- Control the sales floor inventory
- Ensures that goods and products are properly arranged
- Supervises the entire sales staff and workforce
- Any other duty as assigned by the CEO
- Manage vendor relations, market visits, and the ongoing education and development of the organizations’ buying teams
- Help to ensure consistent quality of liquors, wines and beers on our rack
- Responsible for the purchase of wines, beers and liquors for the organizations
- Responsible for planning sales, monitoring inventory, selecting the merchandise, and writing and pricing orders to vendors
- Ensures that the organization operates within stipulated budget.
- Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
- Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
- Identify, prioritize, and reach out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
- Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
- Develop, execute and evaluate new plans for expanding increase sales
- Document all customer contact and information
- Represent the company in strategic meetings
- Help increase sales and growth for the company
- Manage the organization website
- Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
- Responsible for installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
- Manage logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems
- Manage the organization’s CCTV
- Handles any other technological and IT related duties.
Accountant / Cashier
- Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
- Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
- Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
- Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
- Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
- Responsible for administering payrolls
- Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
- Handles all financial transactions for the organization
- Serves as internal auditor for the organization
Client Service Executive
- Ensures that all contacts with customer (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
- Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
- Manages administrative duties assigned by the store manager in an effective and timely manner
- Consistently stays abreast of any new information on Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to students when they make enquiries
- Responsible for cleaning the store facility at all times
- Ensure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
- Cleans both the interior and exterior of the store facility
- Any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager.
6. SWOT Analysis
Our intention of starting just one outlet of our liquor retail store in Long beach – California is to test run the business for a period of 2 to 5 years to know if we will invest more money, expand the business and then open other outlets all over California and also sell franchise through the United States of America and Canada.
We are quite aware that there are several liquor retail stores all over Long Beach and even in the same location where we intend locating ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.
We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be welled equipped to confront our threats.
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in retailing to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives. This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store;
Our location, the business model we will be operating on (physical store and online liquor store), varieties of payment options, wide range of liquors, wines and beers (locally crafted beer inclusive) and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store.
A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new liquor retail outlet and we don’t have the financial capacity to engage in the kind of publicity that we intend giving the business.
- Opportunities:
The fact that we are going to be operating our liquor retail store in one of the busiest district in Long Beach – California provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our liquors, wines and beers to a large number of people.
We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they visit our liquor retail store; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.
We are quite aware that just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new liquor retail outlet in same location where ours is located or even the arrival of a nightclub and bar.
7. MARKET ANALYSIS
- Market Trends
In the United States of America, most of the states have strict control on liquor stores hence it is not easy to secure license to open one.
In California and in few states in the U.S, individuals can actually open their own liquor retail store and it is the practice for them to sell loads of assorted alcoholic drinks and not only liquors; they are known to retail liquors, wines, beers and even tobacco et al.
If you keep tab with liquor store business and retailing business generally, you would have noticed that It is now a common phenomenon for retail outlets to leverage on technology to effectively predict consumer demand patterns and to strategically position their store to meet their needs; in essence, the use of technology help retailers to maximize supply chain efficiencies.
No doubt data collected from customers goes a long way to help retail stores serve them better. Another common trend in the retailing industry is the pricing system.
Aside from having varieties of alcoholic drinks in a store, one of the easiest ways for liquor retail stores to sell the drinks on their racks as fast as they can and keep re – stocking is to ensure that the prices of their drinks are a bit lower than what is obtainable in elsewhere.
For example, it is common to see items with prices in this format; $3.99, $99 and $199 et al as against $4, $100 and $200. Liquor stores are also known to follow the rules and regulations regulating the industry in any state that their store is located; regulations like not selling alcoholic drinks to any person who is under – aged.
8. Our Target Market
When it comes to selling liquors, wines, beers and locally brewed beer, there is indeed a wide range of available customers. In essence, our target market can’t be restricted to just a group of people, but all those who drink liquors, wines and beers and those who would want to try out liquor.
One thing is certain, our liquors, and other alcoholic drinks will not be sold to people who are under aged. In view of that, we have positioned our liquor retail store to service the residence of Long Beach – California and every other location our liquor retail stores will be located all over the United States of America and Canada.
We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us. We are in business to retail a liquors and a wide range of alcoholic drinks to the following groups of people;
- Corporate Executives
- Business People
- Celebrities
- Military Men and Women
- Sports Men and Women (with the exemption of under – age)
- Students (with the exemption of under – age)
- Every adult in the neighborhood where our liquor store will be located.
Our Competitive Advantage
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is launching a standard and licensed liquor retail shop that will indeed become the preferred choice of residence of Long Beach California and in every other location where our outlets will be opened.
Our liquor retail store is located in a corner piece property on a busy road directly opposite one of the largest residential estates in Long beach and few meters away from a busy business district. We have enough parking space that can accommodate well over 20 cars per time.
One thing is certain; we will ensure that we have a wide range of liquors, wines and beers available in our store at all times. It will be difficult for customers to visit our store and not see the brand of alcoholic drinks that they are looking for.
One of our business goals is to make Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store a one stop alcohol shop. Our excellent customer service culture, online store, various payment options and highly secured facility will also serve as a competitive advantage for us.
9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY
- Sources of Income
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the liquor, wine and beer store retailing industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to sell a wide range of products to a wide range of customers.
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store will generate income by retailing the following alcoholic products;
10. Sales Forecast
It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies, market survey and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field. One thing is common with liquor retailing business, the larger a liquor retail store the larger the numbers of customers that will patronize them.
Although we may not be as large as the biggest liquor retail store in the United States, but we will ensure that within our capacity we make available a wide range of liquors, wines, and beers et al from different brands both local and foreign in our liquor store.
Below are the sales projections that we were able to come up with for the first three years of operations;
- First Year-: $75,000
- Second Year-: $250,000
- Third Year-: $700,000
N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and the arrival of a competitor in same location as ours within the period stated above. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.
- Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy
Before choosing a location for Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store, we conduct a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for residence of Long Beach – California and in every other cities where our outlets will be opened.
We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time.
We hired experts who have good understanding of the liquor, wine and beer retail industry to help us develop marketing strategies that will help us achieve our business goal of winning a larger percentage of the available market in Long Beach – California.
In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to sell the products that are available in our store which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;
- Introduce our liquor store by sending introductory letters to residence, business owners and organizations in and around Long Beach – California
- Open our liquor store with a party
- Advertise our business in community based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
- List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
- Leverage on the internet to promote our business
- Direct marketing
- Word of mouth marketing (referrals)
11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy
Despite the fact that our liquor retail store is well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote our liquor retail store.
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store has a long term plan of opening outlets in various locations all around the United States of America and Canada which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Long Beach California before venturing out.
As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store;
- Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
- Sponsor relevant community programs
- Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
- Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Long Beach – California
- Engage in roadshow from time to time
- Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
- Position our Flexi Banners at strategic positions in the location where our liquor retail store is located.
12. Our Pricing Strategy
Pricing is one of the key factors that give leverage to liquor retail stores, it is normal for consumers to go to places (liquor retail outlets) where they can get liquors, wine and beers et al at cheaper price which is why big player in the liquor, wine and beer retail industry like attract loads of consumers.
We know we don’t have the capacity to compete with other bigger liquor retail store, but we will ensure that the prices of all the brands of liquors, wines and beers et al that are available in our liquor store are competitive with what is obtainable amongst liquor retail stores within our level and in our location.
- Payment Options
At Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store, our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our outlets;
- Payment by cash
- Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
- Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
- Payment via Mobile money
In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any itches.
13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)
When it comes to starting a liquor retailing store the major areas that you look towards spending the bulk of your cash is in of course renting or leasing a standard store facility. Aside from that, you are not expected to spend much except for paying of your employees and the stocking of your store.
This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;
- The Total Fee for Registering the Business in California – $750.
- Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $1,300.
- Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Pappy J & Sons Liquor Storein the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of – $3,580.
- Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,500.
- Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
- Cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
- Cost for Shop remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
- Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ($2,500).
- Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
- The cost for Start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of liquors, wines, beers, tobaccos et al) – $70,000
- Storage hardware (bins, rack, shelves, food case) – $3,720
- The cost for counter area equipment (counter top, sink, ice machine, etc.) – $9,500
- Cost for serving area equipment (plates, glasses, flatware) – $3,000
- Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
- Cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs – $5,000
- The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $4,000.
- The cost of Launching a Website – $600
- The cost for our opening party – $7,000
- Miscellaneous – $10,000
We would need an estimate of $250,000 to successfully set up our liquor retail store in Long Beach – California. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all the staff for the first month of operation.
Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Mr. Jeffry Jordan and family. We do not intend to welcome any external business partner, which is why we have decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.
These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;
- Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
- Source for soft loans from family members and friends
- Apply for loan from my Bank
N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $75,000 and soft loan from family members $25,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.
14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy
The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If any of these factor is missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.
Pappy J & Sons Liquor Store will ensure that all the factors listed above are reinforced on a regular basis and also we will engage in continuous capacity building of our workforce. As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more.
We will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that staff welfare is well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner. We have the plans of
Check List / Milestone
- Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
- Business Registration: Completed
- Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
- Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
- Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
- Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
- Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
- Application for business license and permit: Completed
- Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
- Leasing of facility and remodeling the shop: In Progress
- Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
- Generating capital from family members: Completed
- Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
- Writing of Business Plan: Completed
- Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
- Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
- Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
- Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
- Recruitment of employees: In Progress
- Purchase of the Needed furniture, racks, shelves, computers,electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
- Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
- Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
- Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
- Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
- Compilation of our list of products ( liquors, beers, wines, and tobaccos et al)that will be available in our store : Completed
- Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers of various brands of liquors, wines, beers, and tobacco et al: In Progress
Liquor Store Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]
Liquor Business Plan Template
If you want to start a Liquor business or expand your current Liquor, you need a business plan.
The following Liquor business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning Liquor business plan.
You can download our Liquor Store Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.
Liquor Business Plan Example
I. executive summary, business overview.
[Company Name], located at [insert location here]will be a community and quality focused liquor store brand based out of Atlanta, GA. [Company Name] will strive to offer customers a unique alcohol-buying experience along with the widest variety of product offerings available anywhere in the area. The company flagship store will foster a friendly, warm and consultative environment while keeping both prices checkout time low.
Products and Services
[Company Name]’s product offerings will include a comprehensive range of whiskey, cognac, vodka, tequila, rums, Champagnes, wines and beers. The company will provide customers unprecedented access to both luxury and mainstream brands, at fair and affordable prices. While wines and liquor will be the Company’s primary product offering, [Company Name] will supplement retail sales with an alcohol catering division. This part of the business will supply and serve alcohol for benefits, private events, parties, etc. in the Atlanta metro area
Customer Focus
[Company Name] will primarily serve the residents, aged 21 and older who live within a 10- mile radius of our store. The demographics of these customers are as follows:
- 416,000 residents
- 1,750 workers (who do not live the neighborhood)
- Average income of $54,700
- 38.9% married
- 49.6% in Mgt./Professional occupations
- Median age: 34 years
Management Team
[Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the liquor store business for 20 years. While [Founder] has never run a liquor store himself, he was assistant manager at another store previously. As such [Founder] has an in-depth knowledge of the liquor business including the operations side (e.g., running day-to-day operations) and the business management side (e.g., staffing, marketing, etc.).
Success Factors
[Company Name] is uniquely qualified to succeed for the following reasons:
- There is currently no quality liquor store in the community we are entering. In addition, we have surveyed the local population and received extremely positive feedback saying that they explicitly want to frequent our business when launched.
- Our location is in a high-volume area with little direct traffic, and will thus be highly convenient to significant numbers of passersby each day.
- The management team has a track record of success in the liquor business.
- The liquor store business is a proven business and has succeeded in communities throughout the United States.
Financial Highlights
[Company Name] is currently seeking $330,000 to launch.Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:
- Store design/build: $165,000
- Working capital: $165,000 to pay for marketing, salaries, and land costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even.
Top line projections over the next five years are as follows:
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Total Revenues | $548,962 | $774,907 | $1,460,823 | $1,706,778 | $2,431,412 |
Total Direct Cost | ($274,481) | ($371,215) | ($689,371) | ($418,338) | ($436,959) |
Gross profit | $274,481 | $403,692 | $771,452 | $1,288,441 | $1,994,454 |
Gross Profit Margin (%) | 50% | 52% | 53% | 75% | 82% |
Total Other Expenses | ($279,550) | ($350,822) | ($704,244) | ($972,774) | ($1,575,558) |
EBITDA | ($5,069) | $52,870 | $67,208 | $315,667 | $418,896 |
Depreciation | ($9,820) | ($9,820) | ($9,820) | ($9,820) | ($9,820) |
Amortization & Impairment | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
EBIT | ($14,889) | $43,050 | $57,388 | $305,847 | $409,076 |
Interest Expense-Debt | ($8,815) | ($7,668) | ($6,444) | ($5,143) | ($3,763) |
Interest Expense-Leased Assets | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Interest Income | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Other Income (Expenses) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Pretax Income | ($23,704) | $35,382 | $50,944 | $300,703 | $405,313 |
Income Tax Expense | $0 | ($3,436) | ($17,831) | ($105,246) | ($141,860) |
Net Income | ($23,704) | $31,946 | $33,114 | $195,457 | $263,454 |
Net profit (%) | -4% | 4% | 2% | 11% | 11% |
II. Company Overview
You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.
Who is [Company Name]?
[[Company Name], located at [insert location here]will be a community and quality focused liquor store brand based out of Atlanta, GA. [Company Name] will strive to offer customers a unique alcohol-buying experience along with the widest variety of product offerings available anywhere in the area. The company flagship store will foster a friendly, warm and consultative environment while keeping both prices checkout time low. Through improved merchandising and an upgraded sampling, handling and delivery process, the company will strive to transform the in-store alcohol buying experience for consumers while creating a unique and distinctive brand identity, differentiation and brand recall for itself.
[Company Name] was founded by [Founder’s Name]. While [Founder’s Name] has been in the liquor business for some time, it was in [month, date] that he decided to launch [Company Name]. Specifically, during this time, [Founder] took a trip to Fort Lauderdale, FL. During his trip, [Founder’s Name] frequented an independently-owned liquor store that enjoyed tremendous success. After several discussions with the owner of the store, [Founder’s Name] clearly understood that a similar business would enjoy significant success in his hometown.
Specifically the customer demographics and competitive situations in the area were so similar that he knew it would work. Furthermore, after surveying the local population, this theory was proven.
[Company Name]’s History
Upon returning from Fort Lauderdale and surveying the local customer base, [Founder’s Name] incorporated [Company Name] as an S-Corporation on [date of incorporation].
[Founder’s Name] has selected three initial locations and is currently undergoing due diligence on each property and the local market to assess which will be the most desirable location for the store.
Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:
- Developed the company’s name, logo and website located at www…
- Determined the list of products to be offered
- Determined equipment and inventory requirements
- Identified 20 potential suppliers and received preliminary interest from them
[Company Name]’s Products
Below is [Company Name]’s initial list or product categories:
Besides the largest and most varied inventory in the county, the company will promise that the store either carries the customer’s alcohol of choice or can source it from an external third-party. This offer will successfully establish the company as the ultimate and final source for high quality, niche and rare alcohols in the entire area.
Store Design
[Company Name] will develop a 5,000 square foot store whose key elements will include the following:
- Storage Room
- Tasting area
- Liquor Displays
- Check-Out Counter
The retail location has 20 dedicated parking spots which should suffice even in peak hours.
[Company Name] plans to be open 7 days a week, from 10 AM to 7 PM. As demand dictates, we may extend or reduce our hours.
III. Industry Analysis
[Company Name]directly or indirectly competes with all liquor stores nearby our store. Competition will come from big box retailers, convenience stores and other liquor stores.
Industry Statistics & Trends
The following industry size facts and statistics bode well for [Company Name].
- Total US revenue for Beer, Wine & Liquor Stores stood at $44.7 billion last year with total industry net income of $3.8 billion. Projected annual growth is forecast to be 2.9% over the next five years.
- A sustained consumer shift away from drinking at restaurants, bars and nightclubs, towards drinking at home. Sales of alcoholic beverages at bars and restaurants fell 4.6%, while sales at liquor stores, supermarkets and other retailers for “at home” drinking rose 9.3%. Americans are consuming 10 drinks on average each month at home, compared with only 5.7 drinks in bars and restaurants .
- Per capita consumption of alcohol is growing across the United States, today 67% of Americans are active drinkers, the highest since 1985.
- Despite the worst recession in nearly 80 years, alcohol stores have proven to be largely recession proof with liquor store revenues expanding 9% over the past five years. Industry experts are forecasting sustained revenue growth for liquor manufacturers and stores across the United States.
- Deregulation of state-run liquor stores, coupled with revitalization in consumer demand, bolstered industry revenue. In particular, many consumers switched to low-cost liquor in economical packaging, which kept industry revenue afloat.
IV. Customer Analysis
Demographic profile of target market.
[Company Name]will serve the residents of [company location] and the immediately surrounding areas.
The area residents we serve are affluent and are expected spend more on beer and wine per capita than the national averages.
The precise demographics of the town in which our retail location resides is as follows:
Omaha | |
---|---|
Total Population | 426,835 |
Square Miles | 6.89 |
Population Density | 3,789.20 |
Population Male | 48.04% |
Population Female | 51.96% |
Target Population by Age | |
Age 18 to 24 | 11.87% |
Age 25 to 34 | 14.70% |
Age 35 to 44 | 12.15% |
Age 45 to 54 | 13.54% |
Age 55 to 64 | 11.82% |
Target Population by Income | |
Income $50,000 to $74,999 | 11.16% |
Income $75,000 to $99,999 | 10.91% |
Income $100,000 to $124,999 | 9.07% |
Income $125,000 to $149,999 | 9.95% |
Income $150,000 to $199,999 | 12.20% |
Income $200,000 andOver | 32.48% |
Customer Segmentation
In the United States, there are a total of 313 million people with over 222 million of the total population over the age of 21 years. The major age demographic for consumers who purchase liquor is between the age of 21 and 30 years, followed by consumers aged 31 to 40 years.
Click below to see each section of our free liquor store business plan template. You can also click here to get our liquor store business plan pdf .
V.Competitive Analysis
Direct & indirect competitors.
The following liquor stores are located within a 10 mile radius of [Company Name], thus providing either direct or indirect competition for customers:
Sigels Liquors
Founded in 1905, Sigel’s is a Atlanta-based wine, beer and liquor store that operates 10 stores in the Atlanta area. Sigel’s Beverages prides itself on carrying a vast selection of hard-to-find, hand-crafted spirits. This includes more than 225 single-malt scotches, single-barrel bourbons, rare wines and cognacs, imported brandies and vodkas and microbrews.
Sigel’s locations are designed to have a comfortable, elegant atmosphere with informational displays including video loops highlighting products. It also has a warehouse and sales of more than $125 million last year, including a large business selling liquor to restaurants.
Sigel’s Wholesale division is North Texas’ most comprehensive full service beverage alcohol distributor – specializing in unmatched personal service. Sigel’s offers the area’s most complete selection of spirits (ranging from the most popular to the most difficult to source), wines, beers and ales of all types, glassware (direct distributor for Libbey and Riedel), bar supplies and associated products. Sigel’s fleet of delivery trucks makes am and pm deliveries six days a week.
Total Wine & More
Headquartered in Potomac, MD, Total Wine & More owns more than 90 stores in 15 states nationwide, as well as in Canada. Although Total Wine specializes in wines, its stores also include beer and liquor in their product portfolio. The company’s stores sell, on average, 8,000 different types of wine, 3,000 kinds of spirits and 2,500 varieties of beer. Total Wine & More has 100 superstores and is expecting to continue to expand operations. By having numerous retail locations, the company can use its leverage to secure low-cost contracts with breweries, distilleries and wineries, which can benefit consumers in the form of cost savings. The company also sells wine accessories like decanters, as well as cigars and other products. About 57.0% of revenue is generated from wine sales. This company has recently begun expanding to Canada, as well as to western states such as Arizona, California, Texas and New Mexico. The company implemented plans to have at least two stores in Washington, where a new law ended the state’s retail monopoly on liquor. New locations are bringing in additional revenue by expanding the company’s reach to new markets. IBISWorld estimates that Total Wine & More will earn $1.6 billion next year.
Goody Goody
Starting out in 1964, Goody Goody has grown to be one of the major liquor suppliers at the wholesale level for higher end restaurants and hotels in DFW. Goody Goody Liquors Inc., operates 23 stores in the area. It has two stores in Houston and more are planned for Longview, BuckEye Anna, Little Elm and Colleyville.
The store’s inventory includes thousands of types of wines, liquor and beer and a walk-in wine room includes some rare bottles. The store offers tastings of several Texas based Vodkas, Wines and Bourbons, as well as many other liquid libations and exotic elixirs.
Competitive Advantage
[Company Name] enjoys several advantages over its competitors. These advantages include:
- High-End Focus: [Company Name] will focus solely on high-end beer, wine and liquor lovers, which is a fast growing market segment by revenue. By focusing on high-end customers, vs. the mass market, we are able to provide a personalized, meaningful shopping experience.
- Management: Our management team has years of liquor retail experience that allows us to sell to and serve customers in a much more sophisticated manner than our competitors.
- Relationships: Having lived in the community for 25 years, [Founder’s Name] knows all of the local leaders and newspapers, as well as suppliers. As such, it will be relatively easy for us to build branding and awareness of our store.
VI.Marketing Plan
The Marketing Plan describes the type of brand [Company Name] seeks to create and the Company’s planned promotions and pricing strategies.
The [Company Name] Brand
The [Company Name] brand will focus on the Company’s unique value proposition:
- Offering personalized, curated beer, wine and liquor selections in an intimate environment
- Rotating products to always offer the latest selections
- Providing excellent customer service
Promotions Strategy
[Company Name] expects its target market to be individuals living within a 10-mile radius of its store. The Company’s promotions strategy to reach these individuals includes:
Direct Mail
[Company Name] will blanket neighborhoods surrounding its locations with direct mail pieces. These pieces will offer discounts and/or provide other inducements for people to visit the store.
Public Relations
We will contact all local and area newspapers and television stations and send them a press release describing the opening and unique value proposition of [Company Name].
Advertising
[Company Name] will initially advertise in local newspapers and sponsor community events in order to gain awareness.
Ongoing Customer Communications
[Company Name] will maintain a website and publish a monthly email newsletter to tell customers about new events, products, and more.
Pre-Opening Events
Before opening the store, [Company Name] will organize pre-opening events designed for local merchants and press contacts to create buzz and awareness for [Company Name].
Pricing Strategy
[Company Name] pricing will be appropriate for the high quality and level of service associated with the store.
VII.Operations Plan
Functional roles.
In order to execute on [Company Name]’s business model, the Company needs to perform many functions including the following:
Administrative Functions
- General &administrative functions including legal, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.
- Sourcing suppliers and managing supplier relations
- Hiring and training staff
Retail Functions
- Customer service and check-out
- Gift wrapping
- Gift certificate program management
- Display stock, rotation and design
- Janitor/maintenance personnel to keep the store clean
[Company Name] expects to achieve the following milestones in the following [] months:
Date | Milestone |
---|---|
[Date 1] | Finalize lease agreement |
[Date 2] | Design and build out [Company Name]store |
[Date 3] | Hire and train initial staff |
[Date 4] | Launch [Company Name] |
[Date 5] | Reach break-even |
VIII. Management Team
Management team members.
[Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the liquor business for 20 years. While [Founder] has never run a liquor store himself, he was assistant manager at liquor store previously. As such [Founder] has an in-depth knowledge of the liquor business including:
- Store operations and management
- Floor sales
- Display design
- Retail marketing
- Hiring and training workers
- Liquor trends
[Founder] has personal relationships with a variety of suppliers.
[Founder] graduated from the University of ABC where he majored in Communications.
Hiring Plan
[Founder] will serve as the store manager. In order to launch the store, we need to hire the following personnel:
- Assistant Manager (Will handle much of store operations and manage store on [Founder]’s day’s off)
- Check-out and Floor Staff (3 to start)
- Part-Time Bookkeeper (will manage accounts payable, create statements, and execute other administrative functions)
IX. Financial Plan
Revenue and cost drivers.
[Company Name]’s revenues will come from the sale of children’s clothing to customers.
The major costs for the company will be cost of goods sold (supplier costs), staff salaries, and rent for a prime location. In the initial years, the company’s marketing spend will be high, as it establishes itself in the market.
Capital Requirements and Use of Funds
[Company Nameis seeking a total funding of $330,000 to launch its store. The capital will be used for funding capital expenditures, manpower costs, marketing expenses and working capital.
Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:
- Store design/build: approximately $165,000
- Working capital: approximately $165,000 to pay for Marketing, salaries, and lease costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even
Key Assumptions & Forecasts
Below please find the key assumptions that went into the financial forecast and a summary of the financial projections over the next five years.
Product Type | Percentage |
---|---|
Wine | 23% |
Liquor | 26% |
Beer | 19% |
Food / Softdrinks | 20% |
Tobacco / Other | 12% |
5 Year Annual Income Statement
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Revenues | ||||||
Product/Service A | $151,200 | $333,396 | $367,569 | $405,245 | $446,783 | |
Product/Service B | $100,800 | $222,264 | $245,046 | $270,163 | $297,855 | |
Total Revenues | $252,000 | $555,660 | $612,615 | $675,408 | $744,638 | |
Expenses & Costs | ||||||
Cost of goods sold | $57,960 | $122,245 | $122,523 | $128,328 | $134,035 | |
Lease | $60,000 | $61,500 | $63,038 | $64,613 | $66,229 | |
Marketing | $20,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | |
Salaries | $133,890 | $204,030 | $224,943 | $236,190 | $248,000 | |
Other Expenses | $3,500 | $4,000 | $4,500 | $5,000 | $5,500 | |
Total Expenses & Costs | $271,850 | $412,775 | $435,504 | $454,131 | $473,263 | |
EBITDA | ($19,850) | $142,885 | $177,112 | $221,277 | $271,374 | |
Depreciation | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 | |
EBIT | ($56,810) | $105,925 | $140,152 | $184,317 | $234,414 | |
Interest | $23,621 | $20,668 | $17,716 | $14,763 | $11,810 | |
PRETAX INCOME | ($80,431) | $85,257 | $122,436 | $169,554 | $222,604 | |
Net Operating Loss | ($80,431) | ($80,431) | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
Income Tax Expense | $0 | $1,689 | $42,853 | $59,344 | $77,911 | |
NET INCOME | ($80,431) | $83,568 | $79,583 | $110,210 | $144,693 | |
Net Profit Margin (%) | - | 15.00% | 13.00% | 16.30% | 19.40% |
5 Year Annual Balance Sheet
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ASSETS | ||||||
Cash | $16,710 | $90,188 | $158,957 | $258,570 | $392,389 | |
Accounts receivable | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
Inventory | $21,000 | $23,153 | $25,526 | $28,142 | $31,027 | |
Total Current Assets | $37,710 | $113,340 | $184,482 | $286,712 | $423,416 | |
Fixed assets | $246,450 | $246,450 | $246,450 | $246,450 | $246,450 | |
Depreciation | $36,960 | $73,920 | $110,880 | $147,840 | $184,800 | |
Net fixed assets | $209,490 | $172,530 | $135,570 | $98,610 | $61,650 | |
TOTAL ASSETS | $247,200 | $285,870 | $320,052 | $385,322 | $485,066 | |
LIABILITIES & EQUITY | ||||||
Debt | $317,971 | $272,546 | $227,122 | $181,698 | $136,273 | |
Accounts payable | $9,660 | $10,187 | $10,210 | $10,694 | $11,170 | |
Total Liabilities | $327,631 | $282,733 | $237,332 | $192,391 | $147,443 | |
Share Capital | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
Retained earnings | ($80,431) | $3,137 | $82,720 | $192,930 | $337,623 | |
Total Equity | ($80,431) | $3,137 | $82,720 | $192,930 | $337,623 | |
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY | $247,200 | $285,870 | $320,052 | $385,322 | $485,066 |
5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS | |||||
Net Income (Loss) | ($80,431) | $83,568 | $79,583 | $110,210 | $144,693 |
Change in working capital | ($11,340) | ($1,625) | ($2,350) | ($2,133) | ($2,409) |
Depreciation | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 | $36,960 |
Net Cash Flow from Operations | ($54,811) | $118,902 | $114,193 | $145,037 | $179,244 |
CASH FLOW FROM INVESTMENTS | |||||
Investment | ($246,450) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Net Cash Flow from Investments | ($246,450) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING | |||||
Cash from equity | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Cash from debt | $317,971 | ($45,424) | ($45,424) | ($45,424) | ($45,424) |
Net Cash Flow from Financing | $317,971 | ($45,424) | ($45,424) | ($45,424) | ($45,424) |
SUMMARY | |||||
Net Cash Flow | $16,710 | $73,478 | $68,769 | $99,613 | $133,819 |
Cash at Beginning of Period | $0 | $16,710 | $90,188 | $158,957 | $258,570 |
Cash at End of Period | $16,710 | $90,188 | $158,957 | $258,570 | $392,389 |
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- Sample Business Plans
- Food, Beverage & Restaurant
Liquor Store Business Plan
A liquor store is quite a profitable business to be in. Several people get to have a thriving primary income with the help of one.
The major reason for this profitability is due to the massive growth of alcohol consumption over the years. And though it is highly profitable the liquor business is highly competitive too.
If you are planning to start a new liquor store business, the first thing you will need is a business plan . Use our sample Liquor Store Business Plan created using Upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.
Before you start writing your business plan for your new liquor store, spend as much time as you can reading through some examples of retail store-related business plans.
Industry Overview
The liquor store industry stood at a global market value of 1,439 billion dollars in 2017 and is rising at a rapid rate going forward too.
The major reason is the rise in alcohol consumption worldwide, which has happened due to the increase in acceptance of alcohol amongst the younger population and the increase in disposable income.
But as the industry is very profitable, it attracts a lot of competition too. Hence, proper planning and having a proper business strategy are essential for your business to succeed.
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Things to Consider Before Writing a Liquor Store Business Plan
Get the necessary licenses and permits.
As a liquor store business, you’ll need quite a few permits and licenses to operate your store before getting started. Depending on the location of your store, several federal and state permits can help you stay on the good side of the law. The easiest way to ensure that you don’t miss out on any important documents is to have a checklist of all the required permits.
Pick a good location
A good location makes or breaks any business , especially if you are in a business where customers have to visit your store. The same holds for a liquor store as well. The more accessible your store is to your customers, the more likely it is to work and become profitable. Hence, take your time to pick a location that would work best for your business.
Get your store insured
Getting your store insured is another important step before you get started. As you are dealing with stuff that can get damaged easily, getting insurance helps you make sure that it doesn’t serve as a huge blow to your business. Also, having insurance helps you rest assured and focus on what matters.
Choose a legal structure for your business
The legal structure of your business impacts your business in several ways. From deciding the taxes you’ll pay, to the liability on your assets, the legal structure of your business decides it all. Hence, it is important to choose the right one for your business.
Chalking out Your Business Plan
You don’t need to worry about it if you plan on opening a liquor store. All you need is a liquor store business plan to combat competition and to have a thriving liquor store business.
Reading sample business plans will give you a good idea of what you’re aiming for. Also, it will show you the different sections that different entrepreneurs include and the language they use to write about themselves and their business plans.
We have created this sample business plan for you to get a good idea about what a perfect liquor store business plan should look like and what details you will need to include in your stunning business plan.
Liquor Store Business Plan Outline
This is the standard business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.
- Mission Statement
- Vision Statement
- Customer Focus
- Success Factors
- 3 Year profit forecast
- Business Structure
- Store Design
- Startup cost
- Products and Services
- Industry Analysis
- Market Segmentation
- Market Needs
- SWOT Analysis
- Sales Strategy
- Direct Mail
- Public Relations
- Advertising
- Ongoing Customer Communications
- Pre-Opening Events
- Pricing Strategy
- Robert Moore
- Personnel Plan
- Important Assumptions
- Brake-even Analysis
- Profit Yearly
- Gross Margin Yearly
- Projected Cash Flow
- Projected Balance Sheet
- Business Ratios
After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this sample business plan into your business plan to modify the required information, and download your liquor store business plan pdf . It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.
The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan
Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.
Download a sample liquor store business plan
Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go; download our free liquor store business plan pdf to start.
It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your liquor store business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.
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About the Author
Upmetrics Team
Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more
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Bottle POS » Latest Articles
Table of Contents
- Why You Need a Liquor Store Business Plan
- 1. Executive Summary
- 2. Business Description
- 3. Market Analysis
- 4. Marketing and Sales Strategy
- 5. Product and Service Description
- 6. Operational Plan
- 7. Financial Projections
- Getting the Most From Your Liquor Store Business Plan
7 Elements of a Successful Liquor Store Business Plan
Picture a thriving liquor store — shelves adorned with carefully chosen bottles, each one telling a unique story. Behind this success lies a meticulously crafted business plan, the backbone of turning passion into profit.
Your dream liquor store has a unique tale — one beginning with your unique blend of ambition and expertise. Crafting a business plan isn't just about numbers; it's about transforming aspirations into actionable steps . But how can you get started? What are the elements of a successful liquor store business plan ?
This post covers the key elements of your liquor store business plan. We will walk you through every step of the way, giving you everything you need to start your journey to opening a thriving liquor store.
Why You Need a Liquor Store Business Plan
Crafting a business plan is pivotal to establishing a successful and thriving shop! Before diving into the elements that make a business plan successful, let’s establish a solid liquor store business plan.
Your business plan serves as your store's strategic compass, guiding you through the industry's complexities, while helping you realize your vision. It's a comprehensive document that lays out your goals, objectives, and strategies, providing a clear roadmap for your liquor store's growth and development.
Related Read: Alcohol Marketing Strategies: 5 Expert Tips To Help You Sell More
Creating a well-structured business plan provides some benefits that can boost your store’s chances of success!
- Better Understanding of Your Market : Delve deep into your market by researching and writing your business plan. This comprehensive understanding allows you to identify your target audience, analyze competition, and uncover market trends that inform your decisions.
- Opportunities To Attract Investors and Other Funding : A meticulously crafted business plan makes your venture attractive to potential investors, lenders, or partners. Clear articulation of your strategies, financial projections, and growth potential instills confidence in those considering financially supporting your endeavor.
- Risk Assessment : A business plan prompts you to evaluate potential risks and challenges your liquor store might face. By acknowledging these risks upfront, you can develop strategies to mitigate them, making your store more resilient.
- Alignment of Employees and Stakeholders : Your business plan communicates your mission, goals, and strategies to employees and stakeholders. This alignment fosters a shared sense of purpose and direction, ensuring everyone works collaboratively toward a common goal.
- Legal Requirements and Compliance : Creating a business plan compels you to consider legal requirements, permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance. This proactive approach ensures that your liquor store operates within legal boundaries right from the start.
Related Read: How To Open a Liquor Store
With this in mind, let’s explore the essential elements of a liquor store business plan that can help you on your journey in this competitive and evolving market.
1. Executive Summary
A solid executive summary is the first element of any successful business plan. This section serves as an overview of your liquor store’s core objectives and goals.
Explain what makes your store unique and how you plan to stand out in a competitive market. You’ll also want to include a brief summary of your financials. Offering a glimpse into your financial projections and funding requirements provides potential investors with a comprehensive understanding of your vision and what it will take to achieve it.
2. Business Description
You're ready to dive into details once you’ve laid out your summary. Use your business description section to paint a vivid picture of your vision.
Describe the location, layout, and ambiance that you envision. Provide insight into the range of products you plan to offer, spanning liquor, wines, beers, and any specialty items you feel confident will capture your audience’s attention.
In this section, you will also identify your target market and share the demographics that align with your offerings. Highlight any competitive advantages your store possesses, whether it's your strategic location, a unique selection of products, or exceptional customer service that will set you apart in the minds of your customers.
3. Market Analysis
Another element you must include in your liquor store business plan is a thorough market analysis.
Begin with an overview of the broader liquor industry, emphasizing trends and growth potential. Next, dive into the specifics of your local market. Detail the demographics and preferences of potential customers in your area.
You must also include a competitive analysis in this section of your plan. Assess the existing liquor stores in your area. What are their strengths and weaknesses? How will your store compare — and, more importantly, how do you plan to identify and fill the gaps in the existing market?
This in-depth understanding will guide your business decisions and help you strategically position your store within the market.
4. Marketing and Sales Strategy
Your marketing and sales strategy is the driving force behind attracting and retaining customers for your liquor store. Set yourself up for success by outlining your marketing and sales plans right from the beginning of your business venture.
Detail your promotional plans , outlining advertising campaigns and social media strategies that will create a buzz around your store's opening. Elaborate on your pricing strategy, special promotions, and discounts to entice customers to choose your store. Lay out your sales tactics, demonstrating how you'll engage customers, encourage repeat visits, and build lasting relationships.
Consider tactics like loyalty programs , events, seasonal promotions, and more.
5. Product and Service Description
Your liquor store's offerings are at the heart of your business. Provide a comprehensive listing of the diverse range of products you intend to sell, from popular brands to niche selections.
Be sure to highlight any unique or specialty items that will distinguish your store from competitors. You should also use this section to acknowledge the changing and flexible nature of the liquor market. Offer insight into potential future expansions, showcasing your willingness to adapt to evolving customer preferences.
6. Operational Plan
Next, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty and delve into the operational intricacies of your store.
Describe the layout, design, and atmosphere you want to create. Detail your inventory management strategy, including supplier relationships, order management, and restocking procedures.
Clearly define employee roles and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of a well-trained and customer-focused team. Research point of sale (POS) solutions and outline the features and functionality you plan to implement in your POS system.
Consider investing in a robust point of sale system built specifically for liquor stores , like Bottle POS. Solutions like these have the features you need to streamline operations and ensure seamless transactions.
7. Financial Projections
Finally, you must include a section of financial projections in your liquor store business plan. This section provides a snapshot of the potential profitability of your liquor store. Present your monthly and yearly sales forecasts outlining your growth trajectory.
Next, estimate your expenses, including rent, utilities, inventory costs, and staffing needs. Provide a comprehensive cash flow projection and accompany it with a break-even analysis to demonstrate when your business is expected to reach a point of sustainability. This data-driven overview gives potential investors a tangible sense of your store's financial viability.
Getting the Most From Your Liquor Store Business Plan
Following the outline above should give you the framework you need to create your liquor store business plan. However, your business plan is, of course, only the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey!
If you want your store to succeed, you must invest in tools that help you streamline operations, delight customers, and easily manage your inventory.
Bottle POS is an all-in-one point of sale solution designed for liquor stores. Our solution offers industry-specific features every liquor store needs, like age verification, case break inventory, built-in customer loyalty programs, and more.
Schedule a free demo of Bottle POS today to see how our solution can help you get your liquor store up and running the right way.
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Liquor Store Business Plan
Planning to open a liquor store? Use this detailed business plan example and download our free template to cover all the essential sections of your liquor store business plan.
Did you know that the U.S. liquor industry is a multi-billion dollar market, with Americans spending over $250 billion annually on alcoholic beverages? Cha-ching! Clearly, this presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs with a passion for fine wines, craft beers, and premium spirits.
However, even with a strong demand and high profitability, you have to consider that there are more than 37,000 liquor stores in the U.S. This means you’ll need a smart strategy and a solid business plan to stand beat them.
So, to help you with the same, we have a detailed liquor store business plan example that will help you to get started.
Liquor Store Business Plan Example
Crafting a solid business plan plays an important role in the success of your liquor store. Let’s explore the Premium Spirits Liquor Store and get practical insights to create a detailed plan for your liquor store.
- Executive summary
Business name: Premium Spirits Liquor Store
Premium Spirits Liquor Store focuses on selling a diverse selection of top-notch alcoholic drinks like wines, spirits, craft beers, and unique imported beverages. Situated in Austin, the store strives to offer a top-notch shopping experience with carefully chosen products, well-informed employees, and a friendly, elegant atmosphere.
Mission statement
To offer a curated selection of high-quality alcoholic beverages, providing exceptional customer service and fostering a welcoming environment for all customers.
Vision statement
To become the leading liquor store in Austin, known for our exceptional product range, knowledgeable staff, and superior customer experience.
- Market analysis
Premium Spirits Liquor Store caters to individuals who are 21 years old and above, including aficionados of high-end wines and spirits, occasional drinkers, and those in search of distinctive and high-grade alcoholic drinks.
Major rivals consist of Austin Wine Merchant, Twin Liquors, and The Austin Shaker. Premium Spirits Liquor Store sets itself apart with an expanded product range, tailored customer service, and an enhanced shopping atmosphere.
Organization and management:
Nash Rivers (Owner/General Manager): Oversees operations, strategic direction, and financial health.
Lyla Compton (Marketing Director): Develops and implements marketing strategies.
Garrett Snow (Operations Manager): Manages day-to-day operations and staff.
Zachary Flynn (Inventory Manager): Handles inventory and supplier relationships.
Amelia Pike (Events Coordinator): Plans and executes in-store events.
Products or services:
Wide Selection of Wines: Curated collection from renowned vineyards.
Premium Spirits and Liquors: Extensive range of high-quality spirits.
Craft Beers : Diverse selection from local and international breweries.
Specialty and Imported Beverages: Unique liqueurs, aperitifs, and mixers.
Gift Baskets and Hampers: Customizable gift options for any occasion.
- Marketing and sales strategy
Leverage social media platforms, targeted online ads, in-store events, and local collaborations.
Offer a membership and loyalty program, maintain a professional website with online ordering and delivery, and engage with the community through sponsorships and events.
Competitive and value-based pricing strategies, with a focus on personalized customer service and attractive product displays.
- Financial projections
At our Liquor store, we’re expected to grow steadily over the next three years. Here, we've shown the revenue and profit margins that reflect our solid business model and market demand.
- Revenue projections
Description | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
---|---|---|---|
Total Customers | 7,200 | 7,920 | 8,712 |
Average Transaction Value | $50 | $50 | $50 |
Sales Revenue | $360,000 | $396,000 | $435,600 |
COGS (50%) | $180,000 | $198,000 | $217,800 |
Gross Profit | $180,000 | $198,000 | $217,800 |
- Funding request
Seeking initial funding of $100,000 from personal savings and a small business loan. Funds will be used for inventory purchases, store setup, marketing expenses, and initial operating costs.
- Business description
Premium Spirits Liquor Store was conceived out of a passion for high-quality alcoholic beverages and a commitment to providing an unparalleled shopping experience.
The store is designed to cater to a diverse clientele, from connoisseurs seeking rare finds to casual drinkers looking for their favorite brands. The founders identified a gap in the market for a liquor store that combines a premium product range with personalized customer service and a sophisticated shopping environment.
Business concept
Premium Spirits Liquor Store differentiates itself by providing a wide range of alcoholic drinks such as wines, spirits, craft beers, and specialty imports.
The layout of the store is created to be welcoming and practical, motivating customers to explore and find new items. Expert staff members are available to offer knowledgeable suggestions, guaranteeing that each customer discovers precisely what they seek.
Goals and objectives
Short-term goals
- Successfully launched the store and established a strong brand presence in Austin.
- Build a loyal customer base through exceptional service and a diverse product range.
- Achieve initial sales targets and positive customer feedback.
Long-term goals
- Expand the product range to include more exclusive and hard-to-find items.
- Increase market share by becoming a go-to destination for premium alcoholic beverages.
- Explore opportunities for growth, including additional locations and online sales.
Core values
- Quality: Commitment to offering only the highest quality products.
- Customer service: Providing personalized and knowledgeable service to all customers.
- Community: Engaging with the local community and supporting local producers.
- Integrity: Operating with transparency and ethical practices in all business dealings.
The alcohol beverage sector is thriving and evolving, fueled by growing demand for high-quality and artisanal products. The market offers a variety of items, including wines, spirits, beers, and specialty beverages.
Over the past few years, there has been a clear movement towards premiumization, as consumers are increasingly willing to invest in superior quality and distinctive products. The market has been greatly influenced by the increased popularity of artisanal and locally made products, as well as the emergence of craft beverages.
Target market description: Premium Spirits Liquor Store targets a diverse customer base:
Age group: Adults aged 21 and over.
Connoisseurs: Individuals with a refined taste in wines and spirits, seeking rare and high-quality products.
Casual Drinkers: Customers who enjoy regular consumption of popular alcoholic beverages.
Explorers: Those interested in trying new and unique beverages, including craft beers and specialty imports.
Gift shoppers: Individuals looking for premium gift options, such as customized gift baskets and hampers.
Competitor analysis:
1) austin wine merchant.
Strengths: Specializes in fine wines with a knowledgeable staff and a strong reputation.
Weaknesses: Limited variety of spirits and craft beers.
Our Advantage: Broader selection of alcoholic beverages, including a diverse range of spirits and craft beers.
2) Twin Liquors
Strengths: Extensive network of stores, strong brand recognition, competitive pricing.
Weaknesses: Generic customer service experience.
Our Advantage: Personalized and premium shopping experience with expert staff and tailored recommendations.
3) The Austin Shaker
Strengths: Focus on craft beers and spirits, unique and hard-to-find products.
Weaknesses: Smaller store footprint, limited selection compared to larger retailers.
Our Advantage: Wider range of mainstream and premium brands, catering to both connoisseurs and casual buyers.
- Organization and management
Legal structure: Premium Spirits Liquor Store is registered as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), providing both flexibility in management and protection of personal assets.
The business is solely owned by Nash Rivers, who also serves as the General Manager.
Management team:
Nash rivers (owner/general manager).
Nash Rivers, with his background in retail management and love for quality wines and spirits, is the mastermind behind Premium Spirits Liquor Store. He is responsible for managing the store's general operations, strategic goals, and financial well-being.
Lyla Compton (Marketing Director)
Lyla Compton is in charge of creating and executing marketing plans. Drawing from her marketing expertise and deep knowledge of the retail beverage sector, she oversees social media strategy, marketing campaigns, and consumer interaction programs.
Garrett Snow (Operations Manager)
Garrett Snow is responsible for overseeing the store's daily operations to ensure efficiency. His duties involve overseeing staff, ensuring operational efficiency, and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. He contributes useful expertise in operations management to the team.
Zachary Flynn (Inventory Manager)
Zachary Flynn oversees the store's stock, making sure there is a wide variety of products on the shelves. He manages relationships with suppliers, keeps track of stock levels, and supervises inventory control procedures. His careful method guarantees that the store consistently has the correct items in stock for customers.
Amelia Pike (Events Coordinator)
Amelia Pike is in charge of organizing and carrying out in-store functions, like samplings and launching new products. She is responsible for liaising with suppliers, marketing events, and ensuring a friendly environment for clients. Her skills in organizing events bring an exciting aspect to the store's products.
Organizational chart
- Products or services
Wide selection of wines
Premium Spirits Liquor Store offers a curated collection of wines from renowned vineyards around the world. Our selection includes red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines, catering to both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.
Premium spirits and liquors
We provide a vast array of high-quality spirits, including whiskey, vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and more. Our inventory features both popular brands and rare finds, ensuring that every customer's taste and preference are met.
Craft beers
Our extensive selection of craft beers includes local favorites and unique brews from around the globe. We frequently update our offerings to include seasonal and limited-edition releases, appealing to craft beer enthusiasts.
Specialty and imported beverages
We provide a variety of specialty and imported beverages such as unique liqueurs, aperitifs, and non-alcoholic mixers for customers looking for a different experience. These items bring uniqueness and diversity to our stock.
Gift baskets and hampers
Our gift baskets and hampers can be customized to suit any event. Clients have the option to select from a variety of wines, spirits, beers, and gourmet snacks, all presented in a visually appealing manner to form a lasting present.
Unique Selling Points
Curated selection
Each product in our store is carefully selected by our knowledgeable staff to ensure quality and variety, offering customers a premium shopping experience.
Expert recommendations
Our team is well-versed in the products we offer and provides personalized recommendations based on customer preferences, enhancing the shopping experience.
Exclusive products
We stock exclusive and rare items that are difficult to find elsewhere, making Premium Spirits Liquor Store a destination for connoisseurs and collectors.
Superior customer experience
The store's sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere encourages customers to explore and enjoy their shopping experience.
Marketing plan
Social media platforms
Leverage Instagram and Facebook to showcase new arrivals, promotions, and events. Regularly post high-quality images and engaging content to attract followers and drive engagement. Use stories and live sessions for interactive customer experiences.
Targeted advertising
Run targeted ads on Google and social media platforms to reach potential customers based on their interests, demographics, and online behavior. Utilize analytics to track performance and optimize campaigns for better results.
In-Store events
Host tasting events, classes, and product launches to attract customers to the store and provide them with an immersive experience. Promote these events through social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage.
Membership and loyalty program
Implement a membership and loyalty program offering exclusive discounts, early access to new products, and special perks to encourage repeat business and build customer loyalty. Use data from the program to personalize marketing efforts.
Community engagement
Interact with the local community by sponsoring events, taking part in local festivals, and forming partnerships with local organizations. Demonstrate dedication to the community to establish a strong brand reputation and foster loyalty.
Sales strategy
Personalized customer service:
Train staff to provide exceptional customer service, including personalized recommendations and product knowledge. Create a welcoming atmosphere to encourage customers to return.
Product displays
Utilize attractive and informative product displays to highlight new arrivals, promotions, and best-sellers. Ensure products are easily accessible and well-organized to enhance the shopping experience.
Online sales and delivery
Provide convenient online ordering and delivery options to cater to customers who prefer shopping from home. Ensure the online store is easy to navigate and offers a seamless shopping experience.
Pricing strategy
Competitive pricing
Set competitive prices for mainstream products while maintaining premium pricing for exclusive and rare items. Regularly review and adjust pricing based on market trends and competitor analysis to stay competitive.
Value offers
Create value offers such as bundled products, seasonal promotions, and discounts for bulk purchases to attract price-sensitive customers and increase average transaction value.
The financial projections for Premium Spirits Liquor Store provide a roadmap for expected revenues, expenses, and profitability over the first three years of operation. These projections are based on market research, industry benchmarks, and realistic assumptions about the store's performance.
Assumptions:
- Initial Funding: $100,000 (combination of personal savings and a small business loan).
- Store Size: Approximately 1,500 square feet in a prime retail location in Austin.
- Average Transaction Value: $50.
- Customer Visits: Projected to start at 20 customers per day, increasing by 10% each quarter.
- Gross Margin: 50% on all products.
- Operating Expenses Growth: 5% annually.
- Inflation Rate: 2% annually.
Revenue projections:
Year | Total Customers | Average Transaction Value | Sales Revenue | COGS (50%) | Gross Profit |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 7,200 | $50 | $360,000 | $180,000 | $180,000 |
2 | 7,920 | $50 | $396,000 | $198,000 | $198,000 |
3 | 8,712 | $50 | $435,600 | $217,800 | $217,800 |
Operating expenses:
Year | Rent | Salaries | Marketing | Utilities & Insurance | Miscellaneous | Total Operating Expenses |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | $36,000 | $60,000 | $15,000 | $12,000 | $9,000 | $132,000 |
2 | $36,720 | $63,000 | $15,750 | $12,240 | $9,450 | $137,160 |
3 | $37,454 | $66,150 | $16,538 | $12,485 | $9,923 | $142,550 |
Net profit projections:
Year | Gross Profit | Total Operating Expenses | Net Profit Before Taxes | Taxes (25%) | Net Profit After Taxes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | $180,000 | $132,000 | $48,000 | $12,000 | $36,000 |
2 | $198,000 | $137,160 | $60,840 | $15,210 | $45,630 |
3 | $217,800 | $142,550 | $75,250 | $18,813 | $56,437 |
Break-even analysis:
Description | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
---|---|---|---|
Net Profit After Taxes | $36,000 | $45,630 | $56,437 |
Depreciation & Amortization | $5,000 | $5,000 | $5,000 |
Cash Flow from Operations | $41,000 | $50,630 | $61,437 |
Initial Funding | $100,000 | - | - |
Total Cash Inflow | $141,000 | $50,630 | $61,437 |
Initial Investments | $70,000 | - | - |
Total Cash Outflow | $70,000 | - | - |
Net Cash Flow | $71,000 | $50,630 | $61,437 |
Cumulative Cash Flow | $71,000 | $121,630 | $183,067 |
Cash flow projections:
Description | Amount |
---|---|
Fixed Costs | $132,000 |
Gross Margin % | 50% |
Break-Even Sales | $264,000 |
Funding Amount:
Premium Spirits Liquor Store seeks an initial funding of $100,000. This amount will be sourced from a combination of personal savings and a small business loan.
Use of Funds:
Description | Amount |
---|---|
Inventory Purchases | $50,000 |
Store Setup | $20,000 |
Marketing Expenses | $15,000 |
Initial Operating Costs | $15,000 |
Total Funding Required | $100,000 |
Download The Liquor Store Business Plan Template
Ready to create your liquor store business plan but need a little help? We've got you covered! Download our free liquor store business plan template PDF and start building your plan today.
Designed specifically for liquor store owners, this template provides step-by-step guidance and practical examples to help you develop a strong and detailed business plan for your store.
We hope you've got a clear idea of all the essential components of a liquor store business plan, such as an effective executive summary, thorough market analysis, detailed marketing strategy, and realistic financial forecasts.
It should be easier for you to start writing a professional business plan for your liquor store.
But, if you're still confused or need help with formatting and presenting your plan, consider using an AI power business plan generator . It will help you prepare comprehensive business plans faster than ever. Just answer a few easy questions, and its AI assistant will generate your plan in minutes!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What financial projections are essential in a liquor store business plan?
There are notably various essential factors to consider in financial projection but a few important ones include:
- Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
- Gross profit
- Operating expenses
- Cash flow projections
- Break-even analysis
What sections should be included in a liquor store business plan?
Here are sections you can include in your liquor store business plan:
- Exit strategy (optional)
How do I use my business plan to secure funding?
To secure funding with your business plan, clearly state the capital needed and how you’ll use it (e.g., inventory, store setup, marketing, and expenses). Show a strong market understanding with an analysis of demand and your competitive edge.
Provide financial projections that demonstrate potential profitability and cash flow, assuring investors of your business's viability. Lastly, have supporting documents like credit history and legal agreements ready to build trust.
What kind of visual aids should I include in my business plan?
You can use various visual aids to make your plan engaging and easier to understand, such as:
- Graphs, charts, and infographics: To illustrate financial projections, organizational structures, and other key overviews.
- Tables: To detail financial data, market analysis , and competitor comparisons.
- Images: To visualize store layout, product displays, and branding elements.
- Infographics: To summarize key points and data in a visually appealing way.
- Maps: To show store location, nearby competitors, and market area.
As the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, Vinay Kevadiya has over 12 years of experience in business planning. He provides valuable insights to help entrepreneurs build and manage successful business plans.
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