PA Wine and Spirits Prices Competitive, Study Finds

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania's Wine and Spirit Shops offer competitive pricing and selection when compared to neighboring states, according to a study conducted by The Harrisburg Patriot-News.

The newspaper reported that, "…a survey of liquor stores in four states conducted by the Harrisburg Patriot-News reveals that prices aren't always better across the state line.  In fact, in some cases, Pennsylvania prices are cheaper."

The newspaper's reporting echoes findings of a 2008 report by a western Pennsylvania daily newspaper that compared prices at 10 locations in West Virginia, Ohio, Delaware, New Jersey and Maryland.

The reporters "shopped" for five popular brands and they found that alcohol bought out-of-state was more expensive in 26 cases, less expensive in 24 cases.  They found that the out-of-state alcohol was $3 per bottle more expensive in 11 instances, and $3 per bottle less expensive in only three instances.

"Our members know that we have offer superior selection and competitive pricing. Our customers know this as well.  Now, it's time for the privateers to face the facts: dismantling this valuable public asset will not result in lower prices and greater selection," said Wendell W. Young, IV, President of the UFCW PA Wine and Spirits Council.

Young added, "Privatization might be a great deal for big-box retailers.  It might be a great thing for big liquor.  But it would jeopardize more than $500 million a year in revenue for the Commonwealth.  And it wouldn't do a single positive thing for consumers."

The article can be found at

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/pennsylvania/20110527_Pa__liquor_often_cheaper_than_in_neighboring_states.html

SOURCE UFCW PA Wine and Spirits Council