Spec’s Wine and Liquor

Spec’s Wine and Liquor is a Texas-based retailer specializing in wine, spirits, beer, and gourmet foods. The company was founded in Houston in 1962 by Carroll “Spec” Jackson, who opened the first store with a focus on offering a broad selection at fair prices. Still family-owned, Spec’s is now led by the Rydman family, who have guided its steady growth and maintained its independent ownership.

As of November 2025, Spec’s operates 220 stores across Texas, with locations in major metropolitan areas such as Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and El Paso, as well as in select suburban and smaller markets. The company’s expansion over the past five years has been measured and strategic, with several new stores opening each year. Spec’s adapts its store formats to fit a range of retail environments, from large destination superstores to smaller neighborhood shops, allowing for flexibility in site selection and integration within established retail centers.

A notable milestone in the company’s history is its rapid growth since the early 2000s, expanding from 24 stores in 2002 to its current statewide footprint. Throughout this period, Spec’s has built a reputation for its extensive product assortment and knowledgeable staff, which has helped it become one of the largest independent beverage retailers in the country. The company remains headquartered in Houston and continues to prioritize Texas markets for future growth.

For landlords, brokers, and developers, Spec’s brings a track record of reliable performance and adaptability. Its presence can enhance the draw of retail centers, and the company’s leadership remains closely involved in day-to-day operations, ensuring consistency and credibility as a tenant partner. Spec’s ongoing expansion and established reputation make it a significant player in Texas retail real estate.