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Florida spirits retailer ABC buys Applejack

30 January 2026 By Miona Madsen

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits has acquired all three Applejack Wine & Spirits locations in Colorado, marking the start of its national expansion.

Family-owned ABC began as a single downtown Orlando storefront in 1936. Now operated by its third and fourth generations, the company has more than 125 locations across the Sunshine State.

The acquisition of Applejack Wine & Spirits, which finalises today (30 January), marks ABC’s first move outside of Florida.

Applejack Wine & Spirits was established in 1961 in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. The company owns two locations in the greater Denver area and one in Colorado Springs.

After the purchase, all three stores will operate as Applejack by ABC.

Charles Bailes III, chairman and CEO of ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, commented: “This is a milestone in ABC’s history and a major step toward our overall expansion plans. Applejack has an exceptional reputation in the industry and is an iconic beverage retailer in Colorado.

“We’re proud to carry on its legacy of family ownership and operational excellence.”

Within the first six months after the acquisition, Applejack stores will be remodelled, including the addition of walk-in humidors.

Jim Shpall, former CEO of Applejack, who has been a full or partial owner of the company for more than 30 years, said: “ABC Fine Wine & Spirits understands what it means to build a business rooted in family values that connects with every community they serve.

“We’ve partnered with this family for 30-plus years, and their ownership of Applejack means the same great experience for our customers and team while opening new opportunities for future growth.”

The acquisition of Applejack is said to mark a strategic advance into additional states while maintaining the independent spirit that defines both organisations.

ABC has also announced two new store openings in Florida for February and March.

The company’s future out-of-state expansion will focus on the Southeast and will be announced later this year.

Earlier this year, alcohol distributor Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) confirmed it is in advanced talks with Reyes Beverage Group to sell its operations in seven US markets, including Florida.

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