Why is Oregon’s Liquor System Important?
An Aid to Oregon Business
Oregon is home to 65 distilleries supporting 18,000 jobs and generating $1.6 billion for the state. The state liquor control system — as it currently exists — promotes fair competition among distillers, which enables locally owned businesses to compete with out-of-state businesses, creating good-paying jobs for hard-working Oregonians right here in our communities.
A Critical Resource For Schools, Healthcare, and Public Safety
Right now, alcohol sales in Oregon are the third-largest source of revenue for the state, providing millions of dollars for schools, healthcare, public safety, wildfire response, and other services critical to Oregon communities.
More Choices. Fairer Prices.
Right now, every store pays the same price for alcohol, which means that big brands can’t negotiate quantity discounts. Our system creates an even playing field for both local and national brands, creating more options for Oregonians. Liquor prices are also tightly regulated by the state, protecting Oregon consumers from artificial price hikes.
Oregon’s System Works
When Washington privatized liquor 2013, prices for consumers skyrocketed, stores saw an increase in theft, and local distillers lost shelf space and business. In Oregon, our current system is good for everyone: Consumers, local businesses, and our communities.