CRESTVIEW — For more than 60 years, Crestview-based Tom Thumb Food Stores has been a fixture in the northwest Florida community.
Boasting 109 area locations, the company proudly serves more than 3 million customers per month, offering a wide range of convenience items like gasoline, snacks, groceries, cold refreshments and fresh hot chicken.
Later this year, the company will embark on a new chapter in its storied history—the retail wine and spirits business.
On Thursday, company executives announced plans for a new drive-thru liquor store concept, to be located adjacent to their existing convenience store on Highway 85, south of Interstate 10.
The all-new, stand-alone “Tom Thumb Liquors” location will feature more than 2,500 square feet of retail space, as well as a drive-thru window lane for added convenience.
“We’re excited about the opportunity to bring a new destination to adult beverage consumers in the north Okaloosa area,” said company Vice President, Trey Powell. “We pride ourselves on responsible retailing and believe we are well-positioned to serve adult beverage consumers with Crestview’s premier selection of spirits, craft beers, and fine wines,” he added.
Tom Thumb Liquors, which is expected to open in late November, will feature more than 2,000 globally sourced items, including:
• Fine wines from both Europe and the Americas
• A full complement of spirits including vodkas, whiskeys, rums & cordials
• A ten-tap growler station affording both 32 & 64 oz. growler fills
• Dozens of local and regional craft beers, as well as a “Pick 6” sampler program
• Premium hand-rolled cigars and tobaccos
• Beverage mixers and related accoutrements; lottery, ATM, and ice
“The investment in Crestview comes against the backdrop of our ongoing remodel efforts, numerous digital signage and equipment upgrades, and a host of other store improvements to our existing portfolio,” said Powell. “We continue to reinvest in the communities we serve, and have proudly served for more than 60 years,” he added.
In addition to the liquor store concept, the company also formally announced its first convenience store location in the Shalimar area. Located at 1101 Eglin Parkway, the Shalimar store is expected to open sometime in early November. It will feature traditional convenience items, hot foods, a large walk-in beer cave and eight gasoline fueling positions.
A grand opening celebration is scheduled Nov. 7.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Tom Thumb to open drive-thru liquor store in Crestview, add Shalimar location