The Editor,
Re. “Craft brewers get OK in Coquitlam” (The Tri-City News, May 4).
I have a vested interest in the liquor retail industry as well as the hospitality industry. Retaining the jobs of 40-plus employees in this community is by far the greatest interest I have.
As a small business owner who has contributed consistently to my community and province, I want to be heard. My business is important.
What advantage will there be to the residents if there are more liquor outlets to choose from? Will saturating the market create better business practices?
All business need to be viable to survive. By allowing wine stores, grocery stores, private liquor stores and government liquor stores to be side by side sets the table for price wars. So now, in order to attempt to keep a business viable, will those who provide the greatest enticement survive? Will grocery stores with the largest purchasing power provide the residents with BOGO offers?
Mayor Richard Stewart’s comment suggests that existing liquor stores have people driving to pick up booze while they are under the influence. Operators of existing liquor stores, private or government, are trained to recognize if someone is under the influence. We do not serve intoxicated people driving or walking.
Are the residents Mayor Stewart heard from requesting more liquor stores? If, according to the mayor, the residents have no concerns about the distance between liquor retailers, perhaps it is because what we have now is working.
Is creating uncertainty for local small business owners in anyone’s best interest?
Since the 1970s, my family and I have operated pubs and liquor stores with great success. I believe healthy competition is good for business. It keeps everyone on their toes and provides more choices. By keeping the existing separation distances, choice is not reduced but continues to provide controlled beverages to our community in a stable, safe and secure manner.
Gordon Cartwright, Woody’s on Brunette, Coquitlam
