SHERBURNE – Opening their own business was always a dream for Gary and Beverly Whaley.
On Thursday, Feb. 12, the Whaleys opened their doors for the first time and invited customers to see what Sherburne’s newest business, No Problem Liquor, had to offer. Although Sherburne is already home to one liquor store, Gary explained that 20 years ago, another liquor store was opened close to his new location 8030 Route 12 South, Sherburne. ‘Sherburne always supported two liquor stores,” Gary said. “There’s one now and I think there’s room for another.”
Opening the business has taken a lot of time and energy for the couple. “Starting from scratch, it was hectic,” Gary said, explaining that getting the store’s liquor license took over 10 months and cost a lot of money up front. In addition, stocking the store cost a considerable amount. Gary estimated the store is approximately half stocked at present, but added that he can order anything customers want and have it within a few days. “When people come in and we don’t have what they want, we take requests. We get deliveries twice a week, so within a few days we can have whatever they want,” Gary said.
“The customer is our primary focus,” Beverly added. “We take your needs into consideration.”
Beverly explained they decided to name the store No Problem Liquor because of her Jamaican roots. Originally from Jamaica, Beverly was naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 2008. “It’s a slogan. Something everybody says in Jamaica,” she explained. Beverly wanted to incorporate some of her Jamaican culture in the store. With both the Jamaican and American flags flying in front of the store, Beverly said, “it’s like a little piece of Jamaica right here in upstate New York.” Beverly explained that for customers over the age of 21, who have money to buy their liquor, there’s no problem. “If you’re underage and have no money, that’s a problem.”
While starting their own business has not been easy, the details are being worked out, and the store is ready for customers. “We’ve had mostly locals so far. It’s a nice location. People don’t have to go into town to get what they need,” Gary said.
