UFCW Urges to Modernize PLCB to Improve Customer Convenience and Generate Revenue

PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., Feb. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Wendell W. Young IV, President of UFCW Local 1776, issued the following statement today after the House vote on House Bill 466:

"We look forward to working with Gov. Wolf and the Senate to pass common-sense modernization proposals that will make the PLCB a stronger asset that can deliver even more than it does today for all Pennsylvanians."

Young added, "The PLCB is a profitable asset that continues to set records in total sales and profits. Last year alone, the agency returned more than $565 million in profits, transfers and taxes to this commonwealth. It makes no sense to sell it off to the big chain retailers and put 5,000 Pennsylvanians out of work in the bargain."

Young urged lawmakers to support House Bill 228, State Rep. Gene DiGirolamo's common sense proposal to modernize the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) to improve customer convenience and the agency's bottom line.

HB 228 would remove antiquated caps on Sunday stores and Sunday hours of operations; allow the LCB to open more stores inside or adjacent to grocery stores or family owned beer distributors; and allow for direct shipment of wine to consumer's homes.

These changes, among others, would generate more than $185 million in the first year alone. The revenue would grow annually as full modernization is implemented.

UFCW Local 1776 represents 24,000 members who work in southeast, northeast and central Pennsylvania and southern New York in supermarkets, drug stores, food processing plants, government services, manufacturing facilities, nursing homes, professional offices and Pennsylvania's Wine and Spirits Stores.

Main Office: 3031-A Walton Rd. Plymouth Meeting, PA  19462 ▪ toll-free: 1-866-329-1776
Northeast PA Office: 2007 Highway 315, Pittston, PA  18640 ▪ toll-free: 1-800-635-6994
Harrisburg Office: 150 South 43^rd St., Room 214, Harrisburg, PA  17111 ▪ toll free:1-800-332-9421
Central PA Office: 3161 Chambersburg Rd., Biglerville, PA  17307 ▪ toll-free: 1-800-332-9421

SOURCE UFCW Local 1776