TheDenverChannel.com









Denver News
E-Mail News Alerts
Get breaking news and daily headlines.
Browse all e-mail newsletters
Related To Story

Battle Brewing Over Alcohol Sales At Grocery Stores

Liquor Store Says Proposed Legislation Will Hurt Business

POSTED: 5:42 pm MST January 15, 2008
UPDATED: 6:49 pm MST January 15, 2008

Colorado's liquor stores said they are worried about legislation set for introduction this week.

Sen. Brandon Shaffer, D-Longmont, and Rep. Jack Pommer, D-Boulder, are working on a bill that would allow supermarkets to sell both regular beer and wine.

Colorado liquor store spokesman Scott Chase said that is problematic for business.

"Beer and wine make up 70 percent of the sales for liquor stores," said Chase.

Chase said there is concern that such a bill would shut down mom and pop shops.

In Littleton, the Safeway grocery store, located at 181 W. Mineral, sells wine, liquor and beer.

A provision in the law allows each chain one store in the state to operate a liquor store. Customers there said they liked the option of purchasing their beer and wine along with their milk and eggs.

"It's convenient and it just eliminates another stop," said one shopper.

That shopper sentiment is what grocers are banking on, according to grocer spokesman Sean Duffy.

"If this legislation passes, grocery stores would only be able to sell full strength beer and wine, not spirits. Liquor stores would maintain their monopoly on spirits. We think there will be a robust competition among liquor stores and among grocery stores. The customers will have a lot more choices," said Duffy.

Liquor stores will also be introducing legislation as an alternative to the bill. They are pulling for a law that would keep liquor stores open on Sundays.

Links We Like
Sponsored Content
By practicing simple habits like eating healthfully, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and exercising you can boost your immune system and keep from getting sick. More

If you’re starting to feel like your home needs a little warmth, try these helpful hints to make your living space just a little more cozy. More

With the economy in trouble, everyone is looking for ways to save money. Find out how you can do just that without sacrificing your current lifestyle. More

The signs of Cancer can sometimes be very subtle. Here's a guide to help you recognize them early. More

Don’t be left out. Make the switch to Digital TV.

MyReport Network

E - News Registration focus group
  My Report Network: Tell your story on 7NEWS. Sign up to be a member of our My Report Network
Sponsored Links

MyReport Network

E - News Registration focus group
  My Report Network: Tell your story on 7NEWS. Sign up to be a member of our My Report Network
Consumer Info


Sponsored Content Provided by ARA