Convenience stores support private liquor sales

The Atlantic Convenience Stores Association is coming out in full support of the P.E.I. government looking at increasing the number of privately run operations that can sell liquor.

Outside of sales by wineries and distillers, there are currently 19 government-run and one private store on P.E.I.

Mike Hammoud, president of the Atlantic convenience stores association, said the government would likely see increased sales and profits if it opened up the market. "Typically the added convenience for the consumer results in incremental sales … at a fraction of the cost of what it would take to operate a full service liquor store," said Hammoud.

"So from the government's perspective it is going to be a lot cheaper for them to do that. From our perspective it makes good economic sense because the commissions from sales and the additional sales of other products would help convenience stores stay financially viable."

Hammoud said convenience stores have the location, the space, staff and customer base already in place. He notes they are also experienced in the responsible sale of age-related products such as tobacco and lottery tickets. Convenience stores, he said, would complement the existing network of liquor commission stores without jeopardizing jobs.

If the government does proceed with allowing private sales, the association would want open and broad distribution to ensure fairness for everyone.

The Atlantic Convenience Stores Association represents 200 stores operating in P.E.I.