Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) was urged to suspend its plan to raise prices on distilled spirits products.
As part of Act 39, the PLCB was granted ‘flexible pricing’ authority, which eliminated consumer safeguards against dramatic and unchecked price increases.
“Consumers want the convenience of additional outlets, not higher prices,” said David Wojnar, vp-state government relations, Distilled Spirits Council. “Unfortunately, Act 39 allowed the PLCB to raise prices instead of creating additional spirits outlets.
“Adding 900 spirits outlets would net Pennsylvania a projected $100 million in additional revenue. The legislature and the PLCB should work together to better serve Pennsylvania consumers instead of trying to pick their pockets,” Wojnar concluded.
Prior to Act 39, the PLCB adhered to a standard markup of 31%, allowing any discount offered by suppliers to benefit consumers in the form of lower prices. The standard markup also ensured transparency in pricing decisions.