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The Advisor - Issue #47

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Message T H EADVISORADVISORI S S U E # 4 7 • M A R C H 2 0 2 5LIQUOR LICENSEADVISOR VS. LIQUORSTORE ADVISORINDUSTRY NEWS FROMINDUSTRY NEWS FROMLIQUOR LICENSE ADVISORLIQUOR LICENSE ADVISOREXCLUSIVE LIQUORLICENSESMASSACHUSETTSLIQUOR NEWSM A G A Z I N E

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Spring is just around the corner, bringing a season of renewal and fresh opportunities. It’s theperfect time to reevaluate your business goals, explore new ventures, and stay ahead ofindustry trends. In this month’s issue, we’re covering major updates in Massachusetts liquorlaws, highlighting the distinct roles of our two branches—Liquor License Advisor and LiquorStore Advisor—and featuring an exceptional business opportunity in one of the mostprominent and desirable neighborhoods in Boston.As the Founder and CEO of Liquor License Advisor and Liquor Store Advisor, I bring over20 years of experience guiding top restaurant, hotel, retail, and liquor store brands across thecountry. My extensive network and deep industry knowledge allow me to navigate complexliquor licensing challenges and provide innovative, customized solutions.As we enter March, the liquor industry continues to evolve, bringing new opportunities forgrowth and success. Now is the time to take a proactive approach—whether you're buying,selling, or optimizing your liquor license strategy. Staying ahead of industry changes isessential, and I am committed to guiding my clients through each step with expert insights andstrategic solutions. Let’s make this season one of progress, innovation, and momentum. Stayconnected—follow me on LinkedIn for real-time market updates and insights.Sincerely,From the CEO’s Deskwww.LiquorLicenseAdvisor.comDan NewcombFounder & CEOTHE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 2H E L P I N G Y O U B U Y , S E L L & S U C C E E D I N T H E L I Q U O R I N D U S T R Y

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MASSACHUSETTS EXPANDS ACCEPTEDIDS FOR ALCOHOL PURCHASES: WHATRETAILERS NEED TO KNOWOn January 8, 2025, Governor Maura Healey signed H4131into law, expanding the list of IDs that alcoholic beveragelicensees may rely on for alcohol sales. This update, whichtakes effect April 8, 2025, marks a major shift inMassachusetts’ alcohol laws, allowing retailers to accept out-of-state driver’s licenses and Global Entry Cards as valid proofof age.For years, Massachusetts was the only state that did not allowalcohol beverage retailers to legally rely on out-of-state driver’slicenses. This restriction created unnecessary challenges forbusinesses and consumers, particularly those near state borders.With the passage of H4131, that outdated rule has finally changed.Starting April 8, 2025, alcoholic beverage licensees may reasonablyrely on the following forms of identification for proof of age:Massachusetts Driver’s Licenses, Massachusetts LiquorIdentification Cards, Massachusetts Identification Cards, U.S.Passports, U.S. Passport Cards, and U.S. Military IdentificationCards. The two major additions to the accepted forms of ID include validdriver’s licenses issued by another state and Global Entry Cardsissued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. While someretailers have already accepted out-of-state IDs in practice, theywere not legally protected under Massachusetts law. This updateprovides clarity and removes liability concerns for retailers—butbusinesses must still verify IDs properly to ensure compliance.The organization drafted and introduced the bill as H369 before itbecame H4131, leading the charge to modernize the state's alcohollaws. MASSPACK President Sean Barry, owner of Four SeasonsWine & Liquors in Hadley, expressed his support for the law,stating, "I am so glad for our members that MASSPACK gotH4131 across the line. Enacting H4131 is a big deal that helps everyretailer in the state that sells alcoholic beverages."MASSPACK Executive Director Rob Mellion alsoemphasized the impact of this change, stating, "Therestriction on out-of-state IDs in Massachusetts madeno sense. It also unnecessarily burdened both on- andoff-premise retailers located near borders with RhodeIsland, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, andNew York."With this law taking effect soon, Massachusetts alcoholretailers must ensure they are fully prepared. Businessesshould take the necessary steps to update internalpolicies, train employees on ID verification, and remainvigilant in accepting only valid, unexpired IDs to avoidcompliance violations. MASSPACK has announcedthat it will release updated training materials in thespring to assist retailers with these changes.While this legislative update is a big win for retailers, theresponsibility still falls on licensees to verify IDsproperly. For additional guidance, retailers can visitMASSPACK’s website or consult with their localregulatory board.by Michelle HansfordThe Massachusetts Package Stores Association(MASSPACK) played a critical role in this legislativechange. THE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 3With just weeks until this law takeseffect, how is your business preparing forthis change? Massachusetts Driver’s LicenseMassachusetts Liquor Identification CardMassachusetts Identification CardPassport issued by the United States or agovernment that is officially recognized by theUnited StatesPassport Card for a Passport issued by theUnited StatesUnited States Military Identification CardNew: Valid Driver’s License issued by anotherstateNew: Global Entry Card issued by UnitedStates Customs and Border Protection

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Liquor License Advisor vs. LiquorStore Advisor: How Our TwoBranches Support Your SuccessLiquor License Advisor and Liquor Store Advisor are two distinctbranches within our company that serve distinct yet complementarypurposes, providing specialized expertise to meet the diverse needs ofclients looking to enter or expand in the liquor business. While bothdivisions leverage our industry knowledge and regulatory experience, theirfocus areas differ significantly.Liquor License Advisor specializes in securing, transferring, andmaintaining liquor licenses for individuals and businesses. We provide fulltransaction support, ensuring efficiency and compliance. Additionally,our team works closely with a network of attorneys to help clientsnavigate state and municipal regulations.Whether you are applying for a new license, transferring ownership, orensuring ongoing compliance, Liquor License Advisor simplifies theprocess, allowing you to focus on running your business.Liquor Store Advisor is a comprehensive liquor store brokerage servicedesigned to support clients through every step of buying, selling, anddeveloping liquor stores. Our team goes beyond licensing to provide in-depth expertise in market analysis, store valuations, and identifyinggrowth opportunities. Whether you’re looking to sell, acquire, or start aliquor store, we ensure you make informed decisions backed by data andinsights.We specialize in connecting buyers withthe right opportunities and guiding sellersto maximize their investments. Ourservices include thorough marketresearch, accurate valuations, andstrategic guidance throughout thetransaction process. Additionally, we helpclients with store development—assistingwith everything from site selection andbusiness planning to store setup andensuring all necessary licenses are secured.With a deep understanding of the liquorindustry, we’re committed to offering fullsupport to ensure a smooth andsuccessful experience, whether you'reentering the market for the first time orexpanding an existing operation.How We Can Help You SucceedBoth Liquor License Advisor and LiquorStore Advisor exist to help clientssuccessfully navigate the liquor industry.Whether you need guidance withlicensing regulations or expert brokerageservices to buy or sell a liquor store, weare here to support your business goals.If you're unsure which service best fitsyour needs, our team is available forconsultations to discuss your options.Contact us today to learn more abouthow we can assist you in achievingsuccess in the liquor industry.by Kate NewcombTHE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 4Check out our websites to learn more: https://liquorlicenseadvisor.com/https://liquorstoreadvisor.com/

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Selling a liquor store is a major decision—one that requires expertguidance, careful planning, and the right strategy to maximize yourinvestment. At Liquor Store Advisor, we specialize in helping liquor storeowners navigate the sales process with confidence, ensuring a smoothtransaction and the best possible outcome.The liquor industry is always evolving, and demand for well-establishedstores remains strong. Whether you're looking to retire, move on to newbusiness ventures, or simply take advantage of market conditions, we canhelp you determine the right time and strategy for selling.Thinking ofSelling YourLiquor Store?S E L L E R SIs Now the RightTime to Sell?Why Work With Us?Market Expertise – With years of experience in the liquor store brokerageindustry, we understand market trends, buyer demands, and valuationstrategies that help you sell at the right price.Extensive Buyer Network – We connect you with serious, qualifiedbuyers who are actively seeking liquor store opportunities, ensuring afaster, more efficient sale. Accurate Valuations – Understanding the true worth of your business iscritical. We provide comprehensive store valuations based on revenue,location, competition, and industry benchmarks.Confidential & Professional Process – We handle every sale withdiscretion, protecting your business reputation and ensuring that onlyqualified buyers receive key details. Seamless Transition Support – From negotiations to closing, we guideyou every step of the way, helping to facilitate a smooth transition forboth you and the buyer.THE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 5Interested in selling? Contact us to discuss!

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Buying a liquor store is an exciting opportunity, but success depends onchoosing the right business, understanding market trends, and ensuring aseamless transition. At Liquor Store Advisor, we connect buyers withexclusive listings, provide expert insights on valuations and operations,and guide you through every step of the purchasing process to set you upfor long-term success.The liquor store industry continues to be a stable and lucrative market,with strong demand and high consumer retention. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an experienced operator looking to expand, or an investorseeking a high-performing business, we’ll help you find the rightopportunity to fit your goals.Looking toBuy a LiquorStore? B U Y E R SIs Now the RightTime to Buy?Why Work With Us?Access to Exclusive Listings – We connect you with a curated selection ofliquor stores that match your budget, location preference, and businessgoals.Industry Expertise & Market Insights – Our deep knowledge of the liquorstore market ensures that you make informed decisions backed by realdata and trends.Comprehensive Business Evaluations – We assess store financials,customer demographics, lease agreements, and operational potential soyou can invest with confidence.Negotiation & Closing Support – From making an offer to finalizing thedeal, we handle every step of the transaction to protect your interests andsecure the best terms.Licensing & Compliance Assistance – Buying a liquor store comes withregulatory requirements. We guide you through the liquor licensingprocess, ensuring a smooth transition.THE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 6

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QUESTIONS ABOUT LISTINGS?Dan Newcomb617-500-4625 Dnewcomb@llausa.comListing Highlights:All-Alcoholic Beverages License: Permitted for the sale of beer, wine, and spiritsTotal Space: 1,272 sq. ft. (street level) + 1,169 sq. ft. (lower level)Established Business: Recently renovated with premium fixtures and layout featuring:Carefully designed gondolas and wall shelvingSpacious walk-in coolersOrganized floor displays and inventory storageFEATURED LISTINGBOUTIQUE RETAIL LIQUOR STOREBACK BAY, BOSTONTHE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 7Back Bay Liquor Store with All-Alcoholic Beverages LicenseAsking Price: $875,000 plus inventoryRent: $22,000 per month plus triple netLiquor Store Advisor proudly presents an exclusive opportunity to acquire a high-profileboutique liquor store in Boston’s historic Back Bay. Located just steps from Copley Square in aprime retail district, this store offers excellent visibility and benefits from continuous foot trafficfrom nearby residential, hotel, and office buildings.

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EXCLUSIVE LIQUORLICENSES AVAILABLEOff-Premise Retail Beverage LicenseSuited for a package store, supermarket, convenience store or gas station Framingham - All Alcoholic Beverages License ($425,000)Attleboro - Wine & Malt Beverages License ($125,000) Cambridge -Wine & Malt Beverages License ($125,000)Franklin - Wine & Malt Beverages License ($150,000) On-Premise Retail Beverage LicenseSuited for a restaurant, hotel, club, or tavernBoston - All Alcoholic Beverages License (Contact Us for Pricing)Boston - Wine & Malt Beverages License (Contact Us for Pricing)Boston - Wine, Malt & Cordial Beverages License (Contact Us for Pricing)Holyoke - All Alcoholic Beverages License ($125,000)Pittsfield - All Alcoholic Beverages License ($85,000)Woburn - All Alcoholic Beverages License ($85,000)Allegheny County, PA - Restaurant Liquor License New Jersey - Egg Harbor 33 Plenary Retail Consumption Liquor LicenseTHE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 8QUESTIONS ABOUT LICENSES?Dan Newcomb617-500-4625 Dnewcomb@llausa.com

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Massachusetts Expands Accepted IDs for Alcohol Purchases: What Retailers Need to Know (Page 3)Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) – mass.gov/doc/abcc-advisory-regarding-changes-to-mgl-c-138-ss-34b-forms-of-id-which-licensees-may-reasonably-rely-on/downloadMassachusetts Package Stores Association (MassPack) – MassPack.org – masspack.orgTown of Hamilton, MA – hamiltonma.gov/commonwealth-of-massachusetts-identification-to-purchase-alcohol/The Somerville News Weekly – thesomervillenewsweekly.blog/2025/01/13/id-for-liquor-purchases-h-4131-3EDITORIAL TEAM & RESEARCH SOURCESMagazine & Digital Editor: Kate NewcombFeatures Editor & Editorial Assistant: Michelle Hansford© Liquor License Advisor 2025. All Rights Reserved Unless Otherwise Noted.THE ADVISOR MAGAZINE  | 9

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THE ADVISORMAGAZINEL I Q U O R L I C EN S EA D V I S O RThe Advisor Magazine is a monthly publication designed to keep stakeholders inthe liquor store and liquor license industry informed on the latest market trends,regulatory updates, and industry insights. Our goal is to provide valuableinformation to help business owners, investors, and industry professionals stayahead in an ever-evolving market. Stay connected with Dan on LinkedIn for thelatest updates and market insights.Liquor License Advisor53 State StreetSuite 500Boston, MA 02109617-648-5558 LiquorLicenseAdvisor.com