Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board Opens New, Customer-Friendly Prototype Store in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board today opened its newly redesigned Fine Wine & Good Spirits store at 1940 Christopher Columbus Boulevard in Philadelphia.  This is the third prototype to open statewide.

The refurbished store – with many new features suggested by customers -- has a central service point at which customers can find assistance, taste products, browse featured items and make purchases. The larger sales area also offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere for customers to learn about and shop for wine and spirits.

"Our goal from the outset of this project was to improve our customers' experience from the moment they walk in the door," said PLCB Chairman Patrick J. "PJ" Stapleton. "The new layout and design encourages people to browse, learn and explore. It's been successful in New Hope and Harrisburg, and we're confident that our customers in Philly will love it, too."

The focal point of the new store is a center table, where consumers can always find staff to answer questions or provide guidance. The center table provides spacious counters for highlighting new products and featured selections, provides a gathering place for consumers to learn about products and find recommendations. It features information such as:

• Frequently Asked Questions about wine and spirits;
• a vintage chart;
• a food pairing outline;
• a party planning guide;
• a calorie chart; and
• tips for responsible hosting and consumption.  

An easy-to-use overview of the most popular wines and spirits will help consumers navigate the choices. Staff will also provide their own recommendations to consumers based on their years of experience.

As in New Hope and Harrisburg, the redesigned Philadelphia store will offer reusable bags and use energy-efficient lighting.

Store hours are from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.  

The PLCB began a rebranding initiative in 2008 as one aspect of its comprehensive effort to become a more consumer-focused retail business. The agency is in the process of rolling out the rebranding initiative statewide.  

The Liquor Control Board has embarked on a systematic business plan to make the 77-year-old agency more consumer-focused. The plan includes initiatives to improve the consumer store experience; enhance training for employees; boost returns to the state's General Fund; assure and promote responsible use of alcohol through regulation and education; and take advantage of new technology.

Media contact: Stacey Witalec or Stacy Kriedeman, 717-783-8864

SOURCE Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board