The Durango Herald and The Journal have written a few articles over the past couple of years in defense of independent liquor stores in Durango. One would think the local paper would stand up for the consumer.
Competition is good. The local retailers have had it way too good for a very long time, not having to compete with the players in the industry and maintaining a markup system left over from a by-gone era.
I spent 45 years in the wine business in Arizona. These local guys should try competing with Costco, Total Wine, Bevmo, plus all of the grocery stores, not to mention that most 7-Elevens and Circle Ks sell liquor and wine. I learned how to compete and had a million-dollar retail business.
It’s ridiculous to assume that groceries are selling below cost. The deals they get from the distributors are driving their prices. I know how the distributors operate and so do these local guys.
In my mind, they are just cry babies who don’t like the fact that they may have to actually become good retailers.
I shop at Star Liquors because I don’t drink California wine. This is a direct result of all of the years I spent in the business, seeing how West Coast wines are now made and marketed. Star has a better selection of the imports that I enjoy.
My advice to these locals: Quit complaining and get in the game. Your free lunch is over!
Tom Hamilton
Durango
