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Proposed 'wine accessory' license draws industry support in public comment
Summary
The Fargo Liquor Control Board opened public comment on a proposed wine accessory license; local wine and hospitality representatives told the board the license could help restaurants offer samples and convert customers to sales, and staff will return the item for formal action at the next meeting.
The Fargo Liquor Control Board held a public comment period on a proposed "wine accessory" license included in the agenda packet and heard several industry speakers who urged adoption.
Angie, a licensing staff member, said she provided a draft license to the board and opened the floor so interested parties could comment before the item returns for a formal vote next meeting. "I put that in the agenda packet and have it in the agenda for everybody as well," Angie said.
Mark Bjornstead (president of Drucker Brewing Company) said the license is a "great small step" to help Fargo businesses remain competitive and that similar models around the country expand the market rather than cannibalize existing retailers. "It expands the market, offers more opportunities throughout all of the license holders," Bjornstead said, and praised staff for including guardrails in the draft.
Nikki Vergeland, who described her experience in wine retail and on-premise wine education, said the license would enable restaurants to sell unique wines tasted on-site and could increase later retail purchases. Vergeland said such sales would likely be at higher premiums and would not flood the market, arguing the policy could help struggling restaurants add an experiential revenue stream.
Staff confirmed the item will be scheduled for action at the next liquor control meeting so the board can vote after receiving public input.
