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Bill to let caterers buy from wholesalers draws split testimony; liquor stores cite historic agreement
Summary
The House Committee on Small Business heard testimony April 3, 2025, on House Bill 5885, introduced by Representative Casey, which would allow class P license holders (caterers) to purchase alcoholic beverages directly from wholesalers.
The House Committee on Small Business heard testimony April 3, 2025, on House Bill 5885, introduced by Representative Casey, which would allow holders of a class P catering liquor license to purchase alcoholic beverages from wholesalers rather than being required to buy from class A retail liquor stores.
Proponents — including caterers and hospitality trade representatives — told the committee the change is a matter of competitive fairness and operational practicality. TR McGrath, owner of McGrath Clamb Bakes and Catering, said caterers routinely place large case orders that are effectively pass-through deliveries from distributor trucks and that buying wholesale would simplify logistics and lower costs. Bill Walsh of the Rhode Island Hospitality…
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