Looking back at 2014, it was a year that might have been a whole lot more.
The year waning will be remembered as one when much-discussed intent to liberalize B.C. liquor sales finally came to fruition. But as far as how successful the provincial government’s efforts turn out to be? Well, we’ll have to wait a while to see.
Despite great claims of level playing fields and listening to what consumers want, my hunch is that what could have been a real opportunity to truly bring the province into the 21st century has unfortunately fallen short.
The proposed changes, which take effect on April 1 (far too early for most to plan effectively, including the government) look very much set to favour the big players at the expense of the small.
They also ignore a huge segment of the hospitality industry, restuarants, probably won’t do the B.C. wine industry any real favours in the long run, and may even turn out to be contrary to the spirit of fair trade practice.
At the end of the day, those of us who might want to drink better but less are going to be penalized when we buy mid- to premium-priced wines. This is the result of the government’s new wholesale price formula which, according to several industry observers, seems likely to result in much higher retail prices.
One of the most successful retail models to date has been the Private Wine Stores. Since their initial inception in the mid 1980s, these stores have played a leading role in driving customer service, staff knowledge and broader selection at every level.
To be fair, the same can be said of VQA stores and the way in which they have driven interest and knowledge in B.C. wines.
Despite all odds, the Private Wine Stores have been hugely successful in wresting a big chunk of the mid to premium wine market away from B.C. Liquor Stores.
Under the new model they have the most to lose, with greatly reduced margins, not being permitted to enter into the spirits market and not even being allowed to sell to restaurants.
The latter was one of the Private Wine Stores key requests in the policy review process.
Marquis Wine Cellars founder and owner John Clerides (who has run his store for 28 years) says there was no consultation as promised. Clerides estimates his margin will shrink between 10 to 12 per cent.
In that the new wholesale system fails to give restaurants the opportunity to buy at true wholesale, you and I will continue to be gouged by some of the highest restaurant wine prices on the continent.
And as for those 100 per cent B.C. wines you’ll soon be able to buy on supermarket shelves? That program is open to interpretation.
More variety? Depends how much you want to pay. More locations and convenience? Sure. Just bring that wallet.
If you’re a wine lover in B.C., 2015 looks set to be an interesting year. Then again, as they say, stay tuned.
Happy new year!
Tim Pawsey writes about wine for numerous publications and online as the Hired Belly at hiredbelly.com. Contact: [email protected].
