Pa. Says Higher Liquor Prices Coming

You could soon pay more at the liquor store in Pennsylvania. That's because the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board will begin charging higher handling fees to liquor wholesalers starting next year. That decision is not sitting well with local business owners.

They claim they are struggling enough as it is, and now they will be forced to raise prices for wine and spirits at their bars and restaurants.

Restaurant owners are warning that liquor and wine price increases are likely following a decision by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to charge higher handling fees to wholesalers beginning next year.

The Patriot News reports, beginning Jan. 4, handling fees charged to wine and spirits wholesalers will go up 35 cents, fees for fifths and half-gallons 75 cents and those for three-liter bottles of wine will increase by $1.15.

Patrick Conway, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association, calls it a significant increase both for restaurants and consumers. He also says the board's decision was made abruptly and without consulting suppliers or the restaurant industry.

Joe Conti, the liquor board's chief executive, said officials decided last spring to restructure the operating fees for the first time in 17 years. He says it should generate $50 million to $75 million more for the agency.