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As reported by the Harrisburg Picayune, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has reversed course and approved the use of beer vending machines in the commonwealth. The PLCB has abandoned its decades long support of the 3-tier system of distributors, in favor of a new model they hope will bring much needed tax revenue to the state in a time of financial crisis.
Approved Beer Vending Machines
“The Commonwealth is facing a budget short fall of $2.5 billion. The use of beer vending machines will vastly increase beer sales with their ability to reach new markets,” explained PLCB CEO Joe Conti. The vending machines will be placed in obvious locations such as malls and grocery stores, but the real growth markets are expected to be high schools and rehab clinics. Beers from vending machines in these locations will be be priced at a premium due to high expected demand.
“Look, there are already thousands of teenagers drinking in the state. Why shouldn’t we capitalize on something that is going on anyways,” stated Governor Rendell.
Joe Popeleski, head of local 8567 and owner of Pop n’ At beer distributorship, expressed outrage over the decision. “I paid $200K, bribed 2 state reps, and posed for nude photos just to get my liquor license, and now I’m going to lose it all to some vending machine manufactured in Asia.”
The Post-Gazette reports that a new Giant Eagle in Robinson has purchased a restaurant liquor license and applied to the PLCB for permission to sell 6-packs to go. Imagine, actually being able to buy beer in a grocery store. Of course, the application is opposed by the PA Malt Beverage Distributors, who don’t want any new competition.
Out east, Wegmans has already been approved to sell beer, however that decision has been appealed to the state courts.
Interestingly, a bill was recently defeated in Colorado that would have allowed grocery stores to sell beer. What is interesting is that it was opposed by Colorado craft breweries and the Brewers Association. They feared supermarket chains would not carry craft beer, and drive out smaller businesses that support craft brewers. Seems odd logic to me, but let’s see what happens with PA. I have to think this is a good thing for consumers.
My guess is that the increased competition should help with prices. Also, specialty grocers like Whole Foods and Market District would likely devote plenty of shelf space to higher-end craft beers which carry better profit margins. The real question is, can you use your Giant Eagle Advantage card to use beer to save on gas?
I had seen some news that indicated the Hofbrau had opened on Monday, but didn’t believe it until the Post Gazette ran not one, but two articles today with actual photo evidence. The first article is more general, while the second is written by beer lover, Bob Batz Jr.
Some interesting highlights from the articles:
Can I request the Hofbrau to fly these ladies in for the Grand Opening? I mean, they spent $8M so far, what's a few plane tickets?
Sadly, the Little Brown Jug in the North Hills was lost to fire last night. There aren’t any real details yet, other than the building looks to be totally gutted.
From the Tribune-Review
This is a real loss for the North Hills, which has very few good beer bars. The LBJ had good food and a great beer selection. I hope the owners are able to rebuild. It makes you wonder how safe your house is in the event of a fire. The LBJ was across the street from a fire station.
Mr. Batz’s weekly (well sometimes bi-weekly) column in the Post Gazette on beer in Pittsburgh was full of some interesting news. Here are some highlights:
Penn Brewery is staying put on the North Side, at least for the next 5 years. No surprise here. The two parties didn’t even start talking about a new deal until 10 days before the lease was up. My hope is that with the flagship beers brewed under contract, the owners will focus on brewing seasonals and specialty beers at the brewpub.
The Hofbrauhaus said they hope to start brewing next week, again. They have been saying this for how long?
Steve Sloan, formerly of John Harvard’s, is doing some brewing at Church Brew Works. They are going to tap his Belgian Golden Strong (love that style) next Wed. I’ve had the pleasure of talking with Steve on a few occasions. Very nice guy and very good brewer. Make sure to check out his beer and support your local brewery.
A whole bunch of new beers and tasting news, including St. Patty’s Day plans for Barely’s and Hop’s and Fatheads.
