The Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABCC) has overturned the Town of Bourne’s decision to deny Market Basket’s application for a liquor license. The commission’s ruling, issued on April 29, 2025, marks a significant development for Market Basket, as the company seeks to expand its presence in the area with its MB Spirits brand.
Key Points in the ABCC’s Decision
The ABCC found that the local special committee, responsible for the denial, provided invalid reasons for rejecting Market Basket’s application. Additionally, the commission highlighted a bias by one of the committee members, which ultimately led to the unfair denial.
In its decision, the ABCC expressed disapproval of the local board’s actions, particularly the lack of a thorough discussion regarding MB Spirits’ business model. It was concluded that the denial was not based on sound evidence. The ABCC recommended that the case be returned to the special committee with the suggestion to approve the liquor license.
Market Basket Responds to Ruling
A spokesperson for Market Basket expressed gratitude for the ABCC’s “thorough review” and supported its recommendation for the board to reconsider the decision. The company also agreed with the ABCC’s assessment that the original hearing in Bourne had been unfair. Market Basket stressed the importance of the new MB Spirits store, which promises to offer “great value” pricing and a convenient shopping experience for the local community.
“We hope the town council will follow the ABCC’s recommendation and approve our application, recognizing the clear support from the community for a new store,” said the spokesperson.
Potential Impact on Cataumet Fish Market
The ABCC’s ruling could have significant implications for the Cataumet Fish Market, which also sought a liquor license after Market Basket’s application was denied. The special committee granted the license to Cataumet Fish Market owners Patrick and Jennifer Ross. However, the final approval is now pending the outcome of MB Spirits’ appeal.
Mary Jane Mastrangelo, chair of the special committee, confirmed that the Cataumet Fish Market’s license has not yet been finalized. The committee is expected to discuss next steps at a meeting on May 13.
Legal and Logistical Challenges for MB Spirits
Market Basket plans to open MB Spirits at a site adjacent to the former Bass Shoe store on Factory Outlet Way in South Sagamore. However, the feasibility of the new store has been questioned due to the potential of eminent domain, as the state may seize the land to construct the proposed Sagamore Bridge.
Market Basket has downplayed concerns over potential land seizure, asserting that it does not believe any expropriation will prevent the supermarket and MB Spirits from operating.
Debate Over Local Liquor Licensing
The ABCC’s decision has drawn attention to the local debate surrounding liquor licensing in Bourne. The town already holds nine out of the ten available liquor licenses, and some local residents and business owners have argued that there is no need for another liquor store.
During the December 2022 hearing, some board members and residents expressed concerns about the proximity of MB Spirits to existing businesses like 1 Stop Convenience. However, the ABCC noted that the special committee had failed to properly assess the type of business MB Spirits would operate, and the board’s decision to focus solely on the number of licenses rather than public demand was not supported.
ABCC Cites Conflict of Interest and Bias in the Local Board’s Decision
One of the most significant aspects of the ABCC ruling was the finding of bias in the local board’s actions. The commission specifically pointed to former board member Judith M. Froman, whose connection to a competitor raised concerns about impartiality.
According to the ABCC, text messages between Froman and Stephanie White, owner of the Main Street Liquor Barn, revealed a potential conflict of interest. Despite filing a conflict of interest disclosure, Froman participated in the vote to deny MB Spirits’ license. The ABCC concluded that this violated the principles of fairness, impacting the overall hearing process.
Reactions from Local Leaders
Peter J. Meier, a current board member and former chairman of the local board, expressed disappointment with the ABCC’s decision. He emphasized the importance of future training for the board to ensure a more informed decision-making process in future hearings.
Meier suggested that the board receive training from a representative of the ABCC to better understand regulations and avoid similar issues moving forward.
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