ABC Fine Wine & Spirits has acquired Applejack Wine & Spirits, marking the start of the company’s national expansion and its first move out of Florida after 90 years of operations.

Founded in 1936, ABC has grown from a store in downtown Orlando to more than 125 locations across Florida. The family-owned company, now in its third and fourth generation, is known for guest service, broad selection, value and deep community ties. 

Applejack, founded in 1961 in Colorado, has two stores in the greater Denver area and one in Colorado Springs. The retailer has been a business partner of ABC for 30 years and is known for its extensive spirits and beer selection, wine program, and delivery to popular ski areas.

As part of the deal, the three large-format stores in Colorado will operate as Applejack by ABC.

 ABC Fine Wine & Spirits chairman and CEO Charles Bailes III said the acquisition is a “milestone in ABC’s history” and a major step toward the company’s overall expansion plans.

“Applejack has an exceptional reputation in the industry and is an iconic beverage retailer in Colorado,” said. “We’re proud to carry on its legacy of family ownership and operational excellence.”

Former Applejack CEO Jim Shpall, who has been a full or partial owner of the company for more than thirty years, added that the new ownership means the same experience for customers and team, while opening new opportunities for future growth.

ABC will also open two new stores in Florida in February and March, and is set to carry out out-of-state expansion with a focus on the Southeast. More details on the plans will be announced later this year.

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