Beverage
Giant Co. Now Authorized to Sell Ready-to-Drink Cocktails in Pennsylvania Supermarkets
The Giant Co. has announced it will begin selling ready-to-drink cocktails at 138 of its Giant and Martin’s stores across Pennsylvania, following the recent legalization of these beverages in Pennsylvania supermarkets. With the new law, which came into effect on July 17, 2024, the sale of pre-mixed, distilled liquor-based cocktails in containers of up to 16 ounces is now permitted. Giant has applied for and received the necessary permits from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, allowing the grocer to introduce this offering to its beer and wine departments.
Ready-to-drink cocktails will be available for purchase at these locations beginning September 16 and will continue to be added over the coming weeks. The product selection will include a range of regional and national brands to cater to a wide array of customer preferences. This move follows the success of Giant’s beer and wine departments, which have been operational since 2011 and 2016, respectively. According to Rebecca Lupfer, Senior Vice President and Chief Merchant at The Giant Co., the decision to expand the store’s offerings to include ready-to-drink cocktails comes in response to customer demand for added convenience while shopping.
Under the provisions of Act 86 of 2024, ready-to-drink cocktails are available in Giant and Martin’s stores that hold the necessary licenses. Customers can purchase these beverages seven days a week between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. The store enforces a strict 100% proof-of-age policy, requiring identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID to purchase alcohol. Similar to the store’s beer and wine policy, customers will be able to buy up to 192 ounces of ready-to-drink cocktails, malt beverages, and/or 3 liters of wine in a single transaction.
Giant Co. is a key player in the omnichannel grocery market across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, and is part of Ahold Delhaize USA, a division of the Netherlands-based Ahold Delhaize. The company ranks No. 11 on the Progressive Grocer 100, 2024 edition, and has been recognized for its sustainability efforts.