Comments on: Repeal Colorado Liquor Law For More Craft Beer

By: Colorado Craft Beer Gathering: Liquor Law Debate Gaining Steam : Colorado Craft Beer

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 05:15:13 +0000

[...] up on a post I had back at the end of November 2007 in which I received emails and comments on, the liquor law [...]

By: Steve

Steve — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 04:30:51 +0000

Jessica – by the sounds of your arguement, we’re actually closer on the issue than you think. As the post suggests, I don’t think the major grocery stores are going to carry local, craft brews. In order to “survive” against the major stores, the smaller stores are going to have to come up with a niche. I think that could be the local craft brews. At a bare minimum I think a consumer should be able to purchase beer or liquor on Sundays. I don’t buy the “added expense” arguement. I’m with you that the last thing anyone wants is limited choices. I just don’t think by allowing purchases on Sundays or being able to buy in a “grocery store” is going to limit those choices. I guess deep down I just want a Trader Joe’s and changing the law is probably the only way to get it.

By: Jessica

Jessica — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 23:45:26 +0000

I am not sure where you are shoping in this state, but you have your info. incorrect. It is in fact the small business mom and pop stores that carry an abundance of not only small craft local breweries but wines and liquor as well. If you think for one minute that grocery store chains are going to supply and support all of the small breweries and wineries at their stores, you are incorrect. Look at states like Arizona and California, the selection within their grocery stores is extremely limited for both beer and wine. Look on the street corners and see how many liquor stores are left to supply people with smaller craft products, virtually none. Sure grocery store chains will carry products such as New Belgium, Blue Moon, Coors and Bud, but they certainly will not carry products like Avery, Bristol, Fort Collins Brewery etc. My beleif is that selection will be limited, local small business will be hurt, not just liquor stores but breweries alike. You have to be kidding yourself if you think for one minute that the grocery store will supply a wide and diverse selection of product, and by the time consumers figure that out the majority of liquor stores will be run out of business and consumer selection will be extremely limited. Why is it fair for grocery to sell booze, but liquor stores are not allowed to sell food product??? Perhaps if the playing ground were a bit more fair, there would not be such an outcry from the liquor industry. Our state has always been a supporter of small business, however the way this bill has been drawn out will turn our state into the Walmart of alcohol with limited choices for consumers.