Bars and restaurants as well as all food and beverage stores (including liquor stores) are essential retail businesses, the Empire State Development agency said.
The New York State Liquor Stores Association emphasized “we do not have to reduce our workforce.” Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered all non-essential businesses to cut their in-person workforce by 75%.
Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf continues to keep state stores closed in that state. Not only does it hurt distillers, but the decision also provides great opportunities for liquor stores in adjoining states to get some of the Pennsylvania retail sales – and taxes.