Fintech recently announced in a blog post that off-premises beer licensees in Colorado will be able to start selling wine soon. In November 2022, Colorado residents passed ballot initiative 125, allowing an off-premises beer licensee to begin selling wine as of March 1. Currently licensed Fermented Malt Beverage Off-Premises Retailers (FMB-OFF) will automatically convert to “Fermented Malt Beverage and Wine Retailer” and have their new licenses emailed or mailed to them. There won’t be any changes to the state license number, issuance date or expiration date.
The two primary types of FMB-OFF retailers are convenience stores and grocery stores. These retailers will experience several benefits with this new classification, including:
- The ability to sell malt and vinous (wine) products in sealed containers for off-premises consumption
- The ability to conduct tastings as long as they meet the standards of the local and state licensing authorities
- The ability to deliver malt and vinous products in sealed containers to persons 21 years of age or older
With approximately 1,800 off-premises beer permits set to automatically convert to a beer and wine license on March 1, there are plenty of opportunities for residents to take advantage of their favorite spot’s new offerings. Not every off-premises licensee will choose to sell wine, but they will be able to if they decide to at some point in the future.
If a retailer is adding new wine inventory to its existing shelves, there is no need to file for a modification of premises with the state or local licensing authorities. If a retailer chooses to materially modify its premises to make room for wine sales, the changes and applicable fees must be filed with the local and state licensing authorities.
Temporary displays — such as advertising banners displaying new wine offerings — do not count as materially altering the licensed premises and do not require approval. This can apply to end caps or other temporary cardboard displays. The only condition is that they must not be displayed in candy or soda aisles to prevent minor access.
Fintech customers can log in to their accounts to add their beer and wine distributors.
For over 30 years, Fintech has led the charge to revolutionize operational efficiencies across the beverage alcohol industry.
