Palmetto Brothers Dispensary to Close on June 22nd Amid Rising Insurance Costs
June 10, 2024Palmetto Brothers Dispensary, located at 115 W. Public Square in Laurens, announced that they will be closing its doors for the last time on June 22nd. The popular beer and wine venue, which has been a staple in the community for the past three years, is facing insurmountable financial challenges primarily due to a significant increase in the cost of Liquor Liability Insurance. Since opening, their insurance rates have soared by 325%.
While the rise in operating costs has been a concern, the dramatic spike in insurance premiums has become the major contributing factor in the decision to close. Owner Wes Meetze expressed his disappointment, saying, “We were holding out hope for a legislative fix this session, but that seems more and more unlikely by the day.”
The future of Palmetto Brothers Dispensary remains uncertain. Meetze is exploring options for affordable insurance that would allow the business to potentially relocate to Harper Commons, a new project by Holmes Development. Despite the current setback, he remains hopeful, stating, “We aren’t giving up on that dream yet. So for now, we are going to say, ‘See You Later’ as opposed to ‘Goodbye’.”
The dispensary has been a source of joy for both the owners and the community. Meetze invites patrons to visit over the next two weeks to help clear out remaining inventory and to allow the staff to express their gratitude for the support they’ve received.
“Serving you beer and wine for the last three years has been one of the greatest joys in our lives,” Meetze shared.
As the community prepares to bid farewell to Palmetto Brothers Dispensary, there is a shared hope that this is not the end, but rather a new beginning on the horizon. Cheers to the memories made and the support shown by the loyal patrons of Palmetto Brothers Dispensary.