Liquor Hutch reports slight sales decline in 2025, THC sales surge

Candace, representing Liquor Hutch, presented the store’s 2025 annual report to the Hutchinson City Council on Jan. 13, saying sales fell to about $7.5 million from $7.7 million in 2024, a decline of approximately 2.2 percent. She told the council that beer sales declined about 5.8 percent, wine sales about 4.2 percent and THC product sales rose nearly 34 percent over the year. Despite lower sales, gross profit dollars were up roughly 1 percent, and Candace said the store expects to make a $550,000 transfer to the city general fund as budgeted.

"For the first time in my career in municipal liquor, I have to stand before you today and say that we had a decrease in sales," Candace said, describing national and demographic trends affecting consumption. She cited a Gallup poll showing U.S. alcohol consumption at a long-term low and said both older and younger demographics are consuming less alcohol. To adapt, Liquor Hutch has expanded nonalcohol and low-ABV options, increased online ordering and experimented with promotions including a wine-passport program and allocated-bourbon auction. The auction, Candace said, produced about $15,600 — roughly double typical expected auction proceeds.

Candace said Liquor Hutch is fully compliant with state licensing and THC packaging requirements implemented in 2025 and is monitoring federal-level questions about THC sales. She noted staffing levels (about 19 employees, five full-time) and named several planned store improvements for 2026, including interior painting and refrigeration updates, which were budgeted. Candace also said she plans to retire in 2026 and is working to facilitate a management transition.

Council members praised staff and asked questions about staffing and customer trends; no formal action was required on the report.