Top 100 Retailers as tourists visiting the area .

With more than 30 years of experience in the liquor retail space , Barnett and his team understand what it takes to properly operate and grow a business .

Due to recent growth , Barnett initiated a more efficient checkout process , which includes a conveyer belt system . This has helped eliminate key issues such as double ringing , missed items and general errors .

Although Gator Beverage ’ s inventory moves fairly quickly , Barnett has finalized the process of eliminating all store and cooler light fixtures that pose any risk to the flavor of the store ’ s products . In addition , Barnett has turned to UV sanitizing light technology for the store ’ s ice machine and air conditioning unit .

BY MAURA KELLER

For Mark Barnett , owner of Gator Beverage , this means that his store has adapted to meet the evolving interests of the younger customers . “ We were originally a specialty beer and keg store , but over time we ’ ve really evolved to become a full-service liquor store offering everything from wine to beer to kegs to liquor ,” Barnett says .

Because of the younger-age customers and the nearby University setting , Barnett takes proper ID procedures extremely seriously . He trains and updates his employees quarterly on identification procedures , including how to spot fake IDs , and the principles of safe and responsible alcohol service .

“ It is really fun to be in a college town ,” Barnett says . “ We really try to connect with the students in different ways .” One such strategy has been Gator Beverage ’ s internet sensation – namely its Tik Tok page , “ Liquor Store 352 ,” a supplemental comedy social media effort which has now evolved to Instagram and YouTube .

“ In less than a year we ’ ve acquired a million followers and a half a billion video views ,” Barnett says . “ It ’ s just incredible .” Indeed , the store ’ s social media presence has garnered national and international attention , and helped Gator Beverage stand out in the local community ’ s mindset , including among those who were not familiar with the store , as well

“ This is a small town and once people get to know you and your business , you make a connection .”

– Mark Barnett , owner of Gator Beverage

So to what does Barnet attribute the store ’ s success and longevity ? Simply : The fact that the he and his team strive to connect with their customers and personalize their shopping experience . Barnett stresses that Gator Beverage is truly the type of family-owned place “ where everyone knows your name ,” and he believes in the importance of establishing friendships and relationships with customers , as well as giving back to the community .

That ’ s why each year since its inception , Gator Beverage has sponsored a beer festival held by the area ’ s local home brew club to raise money for area charities . The store also regularly donates merchandise for various charity events in the community .

“ This is a small town , and once people get to know you and your business , you make a connection ,” Barnett says . “ We are part of the college experience for university students .”

18 Beverage Dynamics • June 2023 www . beveragedynamics . com