Grocers Selling Beer and Alcohol in Maryland? The Pros and Cons for Our Local MD Craft Beer Scene

The debate over whether grocery stores in Maryland should be allowed to sell beer and alcohol is a hot topic that has significant implications for our local craft beer industry. Governer Wes Moore recently stoked the fire of this debate by announcing his support for 2025 legislation that, if passed, would allow beer and alcohol sales in Maryland Grocery Stores.  While I would be lying if I said there was never a time when I secretly desired to purchase a tasty beverage or two while strolling the aisles of my local Weis or Walmart, first and foremost, we here at the BMore Brew Crew are passionate about supporting Maryland’s breweries and ensuring their success. Let’s dive into the potential benefits and drawbacks of this proposed change and what it could mean for our community.

The Case for Allowing Alcohol Sales in Grocery Stores

One of the most compelling arguments for allowing grocery stores to sell beer is convenience. For many consumers, the ability to pick up a six-pack while shopping for dinner ingredients is an added convenience that simplifies our busy lives. States that allow grocery store beer sales often see increased overall beer consumption, which could, in theory, benefit all brewers, including Maryland’s craft breweries.

Additionally, this change could expose our local craft beer to a wider audience. Grocery stores often dedicate shelf space to a variety of beer styles, and craft brews could gain greater visibility alongside well known national brands. For smaller breweries that don’t yet have the resources to distribute widely, getting their products into grocery stores could open new doors. However...

The Potential Pitfalls

The convenience of beer in grocery stores comes at a cost—particularly to small liquor stores. Many of these stores share shopping center space with large grocery chains and rely heavily on beer sales for their livelihood. Allowing grocery stores to sell beer could divert significant revenue away from these local businesses, which may struggle to compete with the purchasing power and convenience of large retailers. For some, the financial strain could become insurmountable, ultimately leading them to close their doors for good.

A Silver Lining for Local Liquor Stores

While the shift could hurt some liquor stores, it could also force them to adapt and find ways to differentiate themselves. One opportunity lies in curating a better selection of craft beer. By focusing on locally brewed options and offering personalized recommendations, these stores could carve out a niche that grocery stores simply can’t replicate. This shift could be a win for Maryland’s craft breweries and our local community members, as more liquor stores might dedicate shelf space to showcasing homegrown talent. Additionally, greater competition could encourage local brewers to collaborate with liquor stores on special releases or exclusive events, further strengthening community ties and spotlighting Maryland’s diverse craft beer offerings. Case in point - Whiteys Liquors. Owner Rob Goss works with many local brewers on collaboration beers and throws beer festivals often in his parking lot which has helped carve out his niche with Whiteys being known as one of the best craft beer locations around.

Supporting Our Local Brewers

At the BMore Brew Crew, we’ve always encouraged our members to support local craft breweries directly. Buying from the brewery ensures that more of your dollar goes to the people behind the beer, helping to sustain their operations and fund future innovation. While grocery store sales might make craft beer more accessible, there’s no substitute for the experience of visiting a brewery, enjoying a fresh beer, and connecting with the people who bring these creations to life.  They work hard to earn your business, and it is important for us to support them.

Final Thoughts

The decision to allow grocery stores to sell beer in Maryland is complex and comes with both pros and cons. As an advocate for our local craft beer scene, the BMore Brew Crew will always continue to champion the importance of supporting Maryland’s brewers. Whether this change happens or not, one thing remains clear: the best way to support MD craft beer is to buy local and buy direct whenever possible. Cheers my friends.