I own a small business in Massachusetts and I'm considering serving free alcohol to my customers as a promotional offer. However, I'm not sure if this is allowed under the state's liquor laws.
6 answers
Michele
Sun Oct 13 2024
In the hospitality industry, there exists a common practice regarding the offering of complimentary beverages. It is widely understood that bars, restaurants, and hotels are generally prohibited from providing free drinks to their patrons without any form of financial transaction.
KatanaSword
Sun Oct 13 2024
This policy stems from the need to maintain a clear and transparent financial transaction between the establishment and its customers. Offering free drinks can lead to confusion and potential disputes over the actual cost of the service rendered.
Margherita
Sat Oct 12 2024
Despite this general rule, there are exceptions to the norm. Under certain circumstances, a bar, restaurant, or hotel may include a drink as part of a meal package offered to customers.
WhisperVoyager
Sat Oct 12 2024
This practice is typically done as a means of enticing customers to purchase a more comprehensive dining experience. By bundling a drink with a meal, establishments can offer a value-added service that appeals to diners looking for a complete dining experience.
Giuseppe
Sat Oct 12 2024
It's important to note that the inclusion of a drink in a meal package must be clearly communicated to the customer. This ensures that there is no ambiguity or confusion regarding the cost of the meal and the additional beverage.