Can You Buy Liquor in Grocery Stores in Tennessee? A Detailed Guide for Shoppers

Hi there! As a home improvement expert who loves to entertain, I often get questions about buying liquor at grocery stores here in Tennessee. Our liquor laws can be confusing, so let me walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing spirits at your local supermarket.

The Basics: Liquor Licensing in Tennessee

Unlike many states where grocers can freely sell spirits, Tennessee strictly regulates liquor sales through a quota-based licensing system. The key facts on liquor licenses are:

For example, Nashville‘s Davidson County has only 5 liquor licenses available at grocery stores. You better believe those go to the highest bidders! The result is that most grocers are shut out from liquor sales.

According to 2019 data from the Tennessee ABC, only around 12% of grocery stores statewide hold active liquor licenses. So availability is hit and miss. Let‘s look at which chains have succeeded in offering liquor:

Grocery Chains Selling Liquor in Tennessee

Through aggressive license acquisition, these major supermarket brands have secured liquor licenses at select Tennessee locations:

1. Kroger

With 27 liquor licenses statewide, Kroger has the widest liquor availability of any grocery chain. Most Kroger locations have a separate liquor store attached to the main store.

Their selection includes over 2,500 wine and spirit brands. You can often find exclusive offerings and limited releases. Kroger also runs regular sales and promotions on liquor.

2. Publix

The newer Publix stores in Tennessee were designed specifically with liquor sales in mind. Of their over 60 locations, around half have full liquor store sections.

Selection includes premium spirits along with Publix‘s own private label liquors. Publix is more limited than Kroger but focuses on curating quality at various price points.

3. Whole Foods

Known for organic and artisanal products, Whole Foods has obtained liquor licenses for stores in the major metro regions. Their liquor selection aligns with the specialty offerings throughout the rest of the store.

You‘ll find small-batch spirits from craft distilleries and unique infused flavors. Of course, expect to pay a premium at Whole Foods!

4. Target

Target has not been nearly as aggressive as other chains in obtaining liquor licenses. Only 3 locations statewide have full liquor sales.

Most Target stores sell beer and wine but no spirits. It‘s a missed opportunity for Target to expand their alcohol selection.

Liquor Laws and Sales Regulations in Tennessee

As a control state, Tennessee imposes strict regulations that grocery stores must follow to sell liquor legally:

Stores also have to adhere to the following protocols:

• Separate liquor checkout registers from the main lanes
• Store liquor behind counters staffed by licensed employees
• Limit hours of liquor sales from 8am – 11pm
• Obtain annual license renewal from the ABC

Violating any regulations could result in strict penalties against the store‘s liquor license. So grocers follow the rules very carefully!

Navigating Liquor Sales in Tennessee

Now that you know the landscape, here are some tips for buying liquor at grocery stores in TN:

• Verify liquor licenses – Don‘t assume your local chain sells liquor. Google "[store name] liquor license Tennessee" or call and ask.

• Seek out selection – Search online to find stores known for a vast liquor selection and special releases. Make a trip specifically to shop their premium inventory.

• Ask about delivery – Some chains like Kroger will deliver liquor purchases through grocery delivery services. Perfect for stocking up without the hassle!

• Watch for sales – Check mailers and online ads for liquor discounts and promos. The holiday season is a great time to score deals.

• Bring valid ID – The grocery staff will be diligent about checking, so always have proper identification handy for liquor purchases.

• Know the protocol – Follow all signage and procedures for purchasing liquor, such as using designated registers.

I hope this guide gives you confidence for buying liquor at Tennessee grocery stores. Let me know if you have any other liquor-related questions! I‘m always happy to share my knowledge on spirits, wine, beer, and cocktail mixing. Bottoms up!