Why a Strolling Liquor License is Essential for Tapville Kiosks in Shopping Centers
What is a Strolling Liquor License?
A strolling liquor license permits guests to purchase an alcoholic beverage from a licensed vendor—like a Tapville kiosk—and walk around designated areas of the mall or shopping center with their drink. While rules vary by state and municipality, the core idea is simple: shoppers can enjoy a responsibly served beverage while continuing to browse, stroll, and shop.
Guests must be properly identified with valid identification (often two forms), and each retail store within the shopping center may have its own beverage policies. However, with clear communication and cooperation from the mall management and retailers, a strolling license can significantly elevate the shopping experience.
Beer and Wine vs. Spirits: An Important Distinction
In most Tapville kiosk locations, strolling liquor licenses typically only permit the sale of beer and wine—not spirits. This is an important distinction, as state and local laws often prohibit open-container spirits in common areas of malls and shopping centers.
That said, many of our signature Tapville cocktails are crafted using wine-based spirits, which allows us to serve creative, flavorful beverages while remaining compliant with these regulations. This wine-based approach enables Tapville to offer an elevated cocktail-like experience, even when hard liquor is not allowed.
Understanding this distinction is critical when introducing a Tapville kiosk to a new shopping center, as it ensures compliance while still delivering an engaging guest experience.
Why It Matters for Tapville Kiosks
Tapville’s self-pour kiosks are designed to complement the retail environment by offering shoppers a fun, laid-back way to enjoy local craft beverages, wine, and creative wine-based cocktails as they explore the center. We've found that:
Shoppers spend more time in malls where Tapville is present.
"Non-shoppers" (such as spouses or partners who aren't interested in shopping) are more likely to stay engaged and relaxed when they can enjoy a drink.
Overall shopper satisfaction and retention improve, making the shopping center more dynamic and inviting.
A strolling liquor license isn’t just a benefit—it’s a core requirement for Tapville kiosk operations.
How to Obtain a Strolling Liquor License
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all process for obtaining a strolling liquor license. It typically depends on the state, county, or municipal regulations. Here's our recommended approach:
Start Local: The mall’s general manager or property management team should contact the local municipality to determine if strolling is allowed and under what conditions.
Understand the State Rules: In some states, strolling is prohibited entirely; in others, it's left up to local governments or the mall’s discretion.
Secure the Liquor License: The Tapville franchisee will typically hold the liquor license and ensure all serving practices meet regulatory standards.
Get Mall Approval: Even in states where strolling is permitted, the mall itself must authorize the practice within common areas.
Final Thoughts
As part of Tapville’s "Drink While You Shop" strategy, a strolling liquor license—typically for beer and wine—is essential. It improves the shopping experience, increases dwell time, and makes the shopping center more attractive to both guests and tenants.
Tapville has seen firsthand how this small regulatory detail can turn a good concept into a great success. For any mall or shopping center considering a Tapville kiosk, we strongly recommend beginning with a discussion about strolling regulations at the local and state level.
