
How to Create an Effective Liquor Store Opening Checklist
This guide shows you how to create a detailed daily checklist to streamline your opening process and keep your liquor store running efficiently.

Caroline PriceAuthor


Opening a Liquor Store Checklist
So many things go into opening a liquor store. Use this free checklist to set your new business up for success.
Get free downloadRunning a liquor store is more than simply filling shelves with bottles — it’s the careful choreography of inventory checks, compliance with strict regulations, and ensuring security at every turn. Studies show that 89% of customers are more likely to make another purchase after a positive customer service experience, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and professional atmosphere. Following a robust opening checklist ensures every detail is in place, allowing your liquor store to run smoothly and deliver a flawless customer experience."
What is a liquor store opening checklist?
A liquor store opening checklist is your game plan that ensures all essential tasks are completed before customers arrive. From security checks to temperature monitoring, these lists help maintain compliance with local regulations while optimizing store operations. Every liquor store needs a customized checklist that reflects its unique business model, state regulations, and operational requirements.
Why do you need an opening checklist for your liquor store?
A detailed opening checklist helps ensure a seamless start to the day at your liquor store, coordinating all the moving parts to avoid issues that could impact customer satisfaction. Consider these areas when you create your liquor store’s daily schedule:
Regulatory compliance
The alcohol industry is heavily regulated, and missing a single compliance check could result in serious consequences. A well-structured checklist ensures you're meeting all legal requirements, from checking ID verification systems to maintaining proper signage. It's your first line of defense against potential violations and fines.
Inventory management
In an industry where product costs can range from a few dollars to thousands per bottle, proper inventory management is crucial. Opening procedures that include inventory checks help prevent theft, track breakage, and maintain optimal stock levels. This systematic approach can significantly reduce the 3-5% average inventory shrinkage that plagues many retail operations.
Staff accountability
When everyone knows their responsibilities, operations run smoothly. A checklist creates clear accountability and ensures nothing falls through the cracks, from checking refrigeration temperatures to restocking display areas. It's particularly valuable when training new employees or managing multiple shift workers.
Security verification
Liquor stores are unfortunately common targets for theft and break-ins. A thorough opening checklist includes security checks of doors, windows, surveillance systems, and alarm operations, helping protect your valuable inventory and ensuring staff safety.
Tips for creating and implementing your liquor store opening checklist
Creating a successful opening checklist means thinking ahead and breaking down each of your liquor store’s needs, from inventory checks to staff prep. Once your checklist is in place, make it part of the daily routine, so everyone knows exactly what to do to get the store ready for a busy day.
Understand legal requirements
Begin by researching your state and local regulations regarding liquor store operations. Include all mandatory checks and verifications in your list, such as:
License display: Display all necessary licenses and permits in a visible location as required by local, state, and federal regulations.
Age verification system: Ensure that your age verification system is functioning properly to comply with legal requirements and prevent underage sales.
Required signage: Confirm that all necessary legal and regulatory signage is displayed prominently in accordance with local laws.
Temperature monitoring: Make sure that all refrigerated products are stored at the correct temperatures and that temperature monitoring systems are functioning properly.
Liquor Store Business Plan Template
Use this free template to easily create a great business plan that organizes your vision and helps you start, grow, or raise funding for your liquor store.
Consult your team
Experienced staff members often have valuable insights into daily operations. Hold team meetings to gather input on what should be included in the checklist. Their practical experience can help identify crucial tasks that might not be obvious from a management perspective.
Create clear categories
Break down your opening checklist into distinct categories to streamline the process and ensure all critical areas are addressed. Organize your checklist into logical sections such as:
Security and safety
Inventory and stock
Compliance and documentation
Store preparation
POS and technology systems
Staff preparation
Customer area
Money handling
Essential components of a liquor store opening checklist
Your opening checklist should cover everything from stock levels and technology equipment checks to employee readiness and customer service areas. By addressing these essential components, you ensure your liquor store is fully prepared for smooth and efficient operations each day.
Security checks
Regularly verifying security systems and protocols is crucial for safeguarding your liquor store, staff, and customers. Certify areas such as:
Locks and security systems: Verify all locks, alarms, and security systems are functioning properly, and conduct a walkthrough to ensure all entry points are secure.
Surveillance cameras and recording systems: Check that all surveillance cameras are operational and properly positioned, and confirm recording systems are capturing footage and functioning correctly.
Emergency exits: Inspect all emergency exits to ensure they are clearly marked, easily accessible, and unobstructed for quick evacuation if needed.
Panic buttons and alarm systems: Test panic buttons and alarm systems to verify they’re functional and trigger the appropriate response in case of an emergency.
Security lighting: Confirm that all security lighting is operational, properly positioned, and provides adequate illumination around the premises to deter potential threats.
Inventory and stock management
Maintain product availability and minimize waste by properly tracking and organizing your liquor store’s stock. Follow up on these areas:
Receiving area: Check the receiving area for any overnight deliveries, ensuring all packages are accounted for and stored in the appropriate location for easy access.
Refrigeration temperatures: Verify that refrigeration units are set to the correct temperatures and are maintaining consistent levels to ensure product quality and safety.
High-value items: Check high-value items for signs of tampering or theft, making sure they’re securely stored and monitored to minimize the risk of loss.
Automated inventory reports: Review the automated inventory reports from the previous day to identify discrepancies and verify stock levels are accurate.
Damaged goods: Inspect inventory for broken bottles or damaged packaging, removing any compromised items to maintain product quality and safety.
Stock rotation: Rotate inventory following FIFO (first in, first out) principles to ensure older stock is sold first and reduce the risk of expired or outdated products.
Daveco Liquors, located in Thornton, CO, has been a trusted name in the liquor industry for years, offering an extensive selection of over 3,500 wines and 4,000 spirits. With such a vast inventory, they've perfected their stock management, ensuring that all products are easily accessible, well-organized, and always available for customers.
Liquor Store Inventory Template
Use this Excel spreadsheet template to stay organized and manage your store's inventory with ease.
Compliance and documentation
Critical for meeting legal requirements and maintaining operational transparency, compliance includes keeping accurate records and confirming all licenses and permits are up to date. Review:
Licenses and permits: Confirm that all necessary licenses and permits are up to date and prominently displayed in accordance with local regulations.
ID verification equipment: Test ID verification equipment to ensure its functioning properly and accurately scans identification for age verification purposes.
Signage: Check that all required signage, including age restriction and health safety notices, is visible, legible, and free from damage.
Compliance logs: Review the daily compliance logs to confirm that all required actions and checks have been completed and properly documented.
Age verification training: Verify that all age verification training certificates are up to date and that staff members are properly trained on the procedures.
In order to operate legally, every liquor store including The Party Source in Bellevue, KY, must adhere to strict state laws and regulations regarding alcohol sales. Compliance with age verification, licensing requirements, and responsible alcohol service is essential for maintaining their business and continuing to serve customers.
Store preparation
Create an inviting and organized shopping environment by ensuring that everything from product displays to cleanliness is in order. Be sure to check:
Windows and entrance areas: Clean windows and entrance areas to create a welcoming and professional appearance for customers as they enter the store.
Store lighting: Check that all store lighting is functioning properly, ensuring well-lit aisles and displays to enhance the shopping experience.
Promotional displays: Organize promotional displays to highlight key products, ensuring they are visually appealing and positioned for maximum visibility and customer engagement.
Ice machines: Stock ice machines and ensure they’re clean, properly functioning, and ready for customer use.
Checkout areas: Clean and organize checkout counters, ensuring they’re clutter-free, stocked with necessary supplies, and ready for smooth customer transactions.
Shelf tags: Verify that all shelf tags reflect the correct prices, ensuring they’re legible and match the current inventory pricing.
Shopping baskets/carts: Make sure shopping baskets and carts are clean, in good condition, and readily available for customers to use.
Binny's Beverage Depot in Chicago creates an inviting and organized shopping experience by offering a spacious layout with clear signage and well-stocked shelves. The store's knowledgeable staff provides personalized service, ensuring customers feel comfortable and confident while exploring their extensive selection of spirits, beers, and liquors.
POS and technology systems
The backbone of efficient store operations, point of sale systems and modern technology streamline transactions, manage inventory, and maintain smooth day-to-day processes. Review systems such as:
POS systems: Boot up POS systems and check their functionality to ensure smooth transactions and accurate processing of sales.
Price scanners: Test price scanners to confirm they’re accurately scanning products and reflecting the correct prices at checkout.
Inventory management system: Verify that the inventory management system is operational and syncing correctly with the POS to track stock levels and sales.
Internal communication systems: Test internal communication systems, such as intercoms or messaging apps, to ensure smooth and effective communication between staff members.
Security monitoring services: Connect to security monitoring services to ensure real-time surveillance and alerts are active and functioning properly.
When looking for a seamless POS solution, many liquor store owners have found success with Toast. As Josh Van Bruggen, Facilities Manager at Bottlecraft, shared, “After we switched to Toast, it made managing our retail inventory a lot more streamlined, a lot more simple. The main thing I would say about Toast is it’s just all so intuitive.”
Staff preparation
A well-organized team helps ensure efficiency and a positive customer experience. Prepare your staff for the day:
Daily promotions and specials: Review the day's promotions and specials with staff to ensure they’re informed and ready to assist customers with up-to-date offerings.
Staff scheduling and coverage: Review staff schedules to confirm adequate coverage for the day, making sure all shifts are filled and roles are clear for smooth operation.
Uniforms and name tags (if applicable): Check that all staff members are wearing appropriate uniforms and name tags, maintaining a professional appearance.
Team meeting: Conduct a brief team meeting to go over the day's priorities, address any concerns, and ensure everyone is aligned on their responsibilities.
Daily responsibilities: Assign specific tasks to staff members, making sure each person understands their duties and is prepared to meet the day's expectations.
New products or procedures: Review any new products or procedures with the team to familiarize them and make certain they’re equipped to handle any questions or changes.
BevMo! stores implement structured opening procedures to ensure efficient daily operations. For instance, a Retail Assistant Store Manager at BevMo! is responsible for overseeing opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and POS system management.
Opening a Liquor Store Checklist
So many things go into opening a liquor store. Use this free checklist to set your new business up for success.
Customer area
Create a welcoming and efficient shopping experience by making sure that your liquor store is clean, organized, and well-stocked. Include areas such as:
Shelving units: Clean and organize shelving units, ensuring products are neatly arranged and easily accessible for customers.
Store temperature: Check the store temperature to guarantee a comfortable environment for both customers and staff.
Music/audio systems: Test the music and audio systems to confirm they’re playing properly and creating a pleasant atmosphere for customers.
Store lighting: Verify that all areas of the store are adequately lit, providing a welcoming shopping environment for customers.
Restrooms: Clean and stock restrooms, ensuring they’re tidy, fully supplied, and ready for customer use.
Parking lot: Inspect the parking lot for cleanliness and safety, ensuring it’s free of debris and hazards, and that spaces are clearly marked.
Pancho's Liquortown in Oklahoma City has been a local staple since 1959, offering a wide selection of wines, spirits, and beers. The store is dedicated to customer service, providing expert advice and special promotions, while also featuring unique products like organic CBD and CBG items.
Money handling
Ensure accurate transactions and prevent theft by implementing clear procedures for cash handling and secure storage. Be sure to review:
Starting cash drawer: Count the starting cash drawer amounts to verify they match the register records and are accurate for the day's transactions.
Safe operations: Check the safe to confirm it’s secure, properly locked, and that the combination or key is accessible only to authorized personnel.
Cash handling procedures: Confirm that cash handling procedures are clearly posted in a visible area for staff to review and follow throughout the day.
Bill validators and coin counters: Test bill validators and coin counters to ensure they’re functioning correctly and accurately processing cash transactions.
Deposit slips and banking materials: Verify that deposit slips and other necessary banking materials are readily available for staff to use when preparing deposits.
Implementation best practices
Focus on setting clear procedures, training staff effectively, and ensuring consistent execution to optimize daily operations and create a smooth, efficient workflow.
Training requirements
Proper training is essential for checklist effectiveness. Create a comprehensive training program that includes:
Walk-throughs: Conduct walk-throughs of each checklist item to ensure staff understands their responsibilities and procedures.
Task explanations: Explain why each task matters, helping staff understand their role in the store's success and safety.
Documentation procedures: Review documentation procedures with staff to ensure accurate record-keeping and easy access for compliance.
Emergency response protocols: Train staff on emergency response protocols, ensuring they know how to act quickly and safely in case of an emergency.
Compliance requirements: Review compliance requirements with staff to confirm they understand and follow all legal and regulatory guidelines.
Management oversight
Managers should regularly verify checklist completion and provide feedback on performance. This includes:
Spot checks: Conduct random checks to verify tasks are completed accurately and consistently.
Documentation review: Regularly review documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance with procedures.
Performance feedback: Provide regular performance feedback to staff to encourage improvement and recognize accomplishments.
Procedures updates: Update procedures as needed to reflect changes in operations or compliance requirements.
Training reinforcement: Reinforce training as needed to ensure staff retains and applies essential skills and knowledge.
Regular updates
The retail alcohol industry evolves constantly, with new products, regulations, and security concerns emerging regularly. Review and update your checklist quarterly to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Cheers to your success!
A well-designed opening checklist is more than just a to-do list — it's a crucial tool for maintaining compliance, security, and operational excellence in your liquor store. By implementing these procedures consistently, you create a foundation for success that protects your investment, ensures customer satisfaction, and maintains regulatory compliance. Remember that the best checklist is one that evolves with your business while maintaining core security and compliance requirements. Regular reviews and updates will help ensure your opening procedures continue to serve your business effectively.
This structured approach to store openings can mean the difference between a smooth, profitable operation and one that struggles with compliance issues, inventory problems, or security concerns. Take the time to develop and implement a comprehensive checklist that works for your specific situation, and you'll see the benefits in every aspect of your operation.
Liquor Store Business Plan Template
Use this free template to easily create a great business plan that organizes your vision and helps you start, grow, or raise funding for your liquor store.
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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only, and publication does not constitute an endorsement. Toast does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, graphics, links, or other items contained within this content. Toast does not guarantee you will achieve any specific results if you follow any advice herein. It may be advisable for you to consult with a professional such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor for advice specific to your situation.
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