DENVER — Buying beer and wine in grocery stores have added convenience for consumers over the last few years since laws began allowing that, but some independently owned liquor stores that were bracing for the change are now deciding to close their doors.
Over the last decade, staff at Baker Wine & Spirits has seen a lot of changes in their industry.
“Full-strength beer wound up in every gas station and every grocery store. We noticed that and it was an impact,” remembered Lawrence Slade, co-owner of Baker Wine & Spirits. “But when wine went into the grocery stores, it was noticeable, and it was quick, and it’s just compounded year over year.”
He said all while the industry faced rising costs, tariffs, and increased rent, the competition became too much…