PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Canned cocktails are now easier to buy in Pennsylvania.
Previously, these liquor-based drinks were only sold in state-owned liquor stores, but now that has changed.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for more revenue for the business," said Konstantine Pappas, owner of Rookie's Craft Burger Bar in Harrisburg.
Gov. Josh Shapiro signed legislation into law back in July.
That law took effect on Monday, allowing gas stations, grocery stores and other liquor licensees like restaurants and hotels to sell canned cocktails to-go.
“If you’re not a beer person but also don’t necessarily like liquor, it’s a nice happy medium between the two," said Destiny Taylor, shift lead manager at Underdog Sports Bar & Grill in Swatara Township.
Underdog Sports Bar & Grill is getting ready to submit its permit to the state.
“We do have to get adjusted to the canning process however there are local teams around that are more than willing to help us adjust to that distributing process," said Taylor.
Each business must pay a $2,500 application fee for that initial permit, then an annual renewal fee of two percent of the cost of ready-to-drink cocktails bought by the business every year.
“If that’s the case I get it, it’s an income for the state but if we make money and the state makes money it’s a win-win," said Pappas.
“We are definitely hoping it makes our restaurant expand and try different opportunities and reach different crowds and be able to bring us to you guys at home," added Taylor.
The GIANT Company also announced Monday its intent to start selling ready-to-drink cocktails at nearly all its GIANT and MARTIN’S stores with operating beer and wine departments throughout Pennsylvania this fall.
The company has applied for and received permits from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to sell the ready-to-drink cocktails at 138 of its stores starting Monday. Stores will start to display product Monday and continue adding different varieties over the coming days and weeks.