New ownership takes over cherished liquor store that's been on Milwaukee's east side since 1934
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A cherished liquor store that's been on Milwaukee's east side since 1934 is embarking on a new journey with new ownership.
"This has been a long time in the making," said Sarah Zimmerman.
Tonit Calaway and Sarah Zimmerman, of Boss Babes, Inc., have recently acquired Downer Wine & Spirits.
"Tonit and I are both attorneys and so we come from a legal background," explained Zimmerman.
Both women are longtime residents of the Downer Avenue neighborhood. Zimmerman said she and her husband moved to the area nearly 17 years ago.
"We've been coming here as customers ever since we started living here," she added.
When the friends heard brothers Mark and Steve Nord were selling their store after about 18 years, they had to jump in on the opportunity.
"Downer Avenue thrives when it's bustling, when all the storefronts are full, and we really wanted to contribute to keeping that going. We didn't want to see another vacant spot," Zimmerman said.
For 90 years, this wine and liquor store has been at this exact location under similar names and different ownership, all while still maintaining their diverse selection.
Manager Michael Morris has been working at the liquor store since 2006.
"We try to have some of the best beer and wine and liquor that's available out there," he told CBS 58 News.
Morris said it's no surprise many customers, like Zimmerman and Calaway, always come back.
"We try everything that comes into the store and make sure that everything's great, so that you can pick anything out and it's going to be a quality good product," he added.
Zimmerman said the essence of the neighborhood staple will remain intact under new ownership.