It’s time to start shopping for the holidays — especially if you want to avoid possible shortages at state-run liquor stores.
Alcohol sales go up each year as Utahns prepare for their Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. But, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause supply chain issues around the globe, DABC deputy director Cade Meier warned that logistics and staffing issues could affect availability just as demand peaks over the holidays.
He recently said that both problems are already affecting other markets, and the DABC’s limit on purchases of Patrón Tequila to one bottle per customer per visit remain in effect.
“Hopefully, the increased demands during the holiday season do not lead to future shortages or further limitations on the amount of purchases on certain items,” Meier said during the DABC Commission’s most recent public meeting.
Meir reported that the DABC is facing shipping and staffing issues as well as “glass shortages, can shortages and even now cardboard shortages.”
He said the DABC is “proactively seeking solutions to those problems” in order to meet increased demand during the 2021 holiday season.
“We don’t anticipate limiting other items at this time and continue watching supply levels to prepare for the busy holiday season,” said DABC communications director Michelle Schmitt via email.
“Overall, we’re moving in the right direction,” Meier said, “but we have many of the same woes that so many businesses have.”
His advice for consumers who don’t want to worry about long lines or whether your favorite wine or bourbon is in stock over the holidays?
“Obviously, it’s a great time to prepare,” Meier said.
