You must vote YES on 124. This measure evens the playing field for everyone involved in the adult beverage industry. Local independent retailers would be allowed 8 licenses. This number would expand to 13, then 20 licenses, and eventually allow for unlimited licenses, matching the treatment that WalMart, Target, Kroger, and Costco get today under current laws. Without this measure, Coloradoans are handcuffing their own small businesses in favor of large retailers.
In addition to benefiting small businesses by leveling the playing field, Ballot Measure 124 would also create more buyers for existing licenses that may want to monetize their business for retirement or to pursue other endeavors. Current license holders are likely receiving less than fair market value for their stores as the buyer pool is severely limited. Because of the 1,500 ft radius restriction in current law that prohibits any new liquor store from locating next to an existing liquor store, almost all expansion (except in new exurban areas that likely need an additional store) involves the buyout of a current license.
This gives the entrepreneurs a viable exit if they would like to monetize their hard work. However, if the store owner instead wants to continue running their business, they can simply say no to any potential buyer. Not only will this measure benefit Colorado small businesses, but consumers as well: as retailers expand, shoppers like you will benefit from better prices, better product selection, and customer service from operators that actually know about wine and spirits – that’s something stores like Walmart can’t provide.
This measure needs an emphatic Yes!
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