February 5, 2025 – Chicago, IL – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Fred Rosen, the transformative CEO of Sam’s Wines & Spirits and a trailblazer in the retail liquor industry. Fred, who revolutionized the way wine and spirits are sold and experienced, passed away on February 4. He was 88 years old.
Fred Rosen’s leadership at Sam’s Wines & Spirits, a Chicago institution, redefined the beverage retail landscape forever. Under his guidance, Sam’s grew from a local liquor store into one of the nation’s most influential wine and spirits retailers. His pioneering approach to customer service, product selection, pricing, and education set new standards for the industry, earning Sam’s a loyal following and national acclaim. Today, every big-box beverage retailer owes its roots of success to the innovations Fred introduced at Sam’s Wines & Spirits in Chicago.
A true visionary, Fred understood the importance of making fine wines and spirits accessible to everyone. He pioneered the concept of the “superstore” for wine and spirits, offering an unparalleled selection of products at competitive prices. His commitment to education and customer engagement transformed Sam’s into a destination for both novice enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs.
Beyond reshaping the wine and spirits industry, Fred’s impact extended to the very fabric of Chicago. Sam’s Wines & Spirits, the nation’s first true wine and spirits superstore, played a pivotal role in transforming Lincoln Park from a forgotten area into one of the city’s most desirable real estate markets in the early 1990s. His vision turned a warehouse district into a thriving hub, attracting businesses, residents, and investors who saw the potential Fred had long recognized.
Fred’s extraordinary contributions to the industry were recognized with numerous accolades. Under his leadership, Sam’s Wines & Spirits was named Retailer of the Year an unprecedented three times, a testament to his innovation and influence in the business. His forward-thinking approach to e-commerce earned Sam’s recognition as one of Forbes’ Best of the Web, setting a new standard for online wine and spirits retail. In his hometown of Chicago, Fred’s commitment to quality and customer experience was honored with Sam’s being named Chicago’s Best Wine Store a record 14 times, cementing its status as a beloved institution.
Fred was more than a successful entrepreneur—he was a mentor, a passionate advocate for responsible consumption, and a tireless supporter of charitable causes. His legacy is one of innovation, generosity, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
“Fred Rosen was not just a leader in the industry; he was a pioneer who changed the way we think about retail liquor sales,” said Darryl and Dana Rosen. “His vision, passion, and kindness touched the lives of so many. He will be deeply missed.”
Brian Rosen, Fred’s youngest son and founder of InvestBev, the nation’s largest alcohol beverage private equity fund, reflected on his father’s legacy: “My credibility as a fund manager and industry expert started on the floor of Sam’s 45 years ago. Those experiences are generational. Our father will be missed.”
Fred is survived by three children and seven grandchildren. The family requests privacy during this difficult time and will announce plans for a celebration of Fred’s life at a later date.
Fred Rosen’s vision transformed the beverage retail industry forever. His influence is seen in every major wine and spirits retailer operating today, and his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the industry he built. He will be remembered as a visionary, a leader, and a beloved figure in the world of wine and spirits.
