Americans have been forced to adapt to a multitude of new changes since the outbreak in March 2020. Although in-person events such as sporting events and concert are returning for most, there is a lot more to be done via Zoom meetings or telehealth. Other surprising pandemic trends are also proving durable—namely, to-go and delivery alcohol went from a legal sideshow to one of the largest policy tidal waves in modern times.
Recent research shows that COVID-19 was implemented by many states. All in all, 32 states out of 50Since the pandemic began, nearly 65 percent have implemented one or two changes in their rules for to-go delivery alcohol.
You can further break it down by 29 states out of 50Restaurants and bars have been granted the right to sell or deliver to-go drinks. To-go cocktails were enshrined in 20 of these states, with the remainder extending to-go beverages at least through 2023. This research does not include temporary emergency orders, which will end once the pandemic has passed.
COVID-19’s alcohol reform waves are not limited to to-go margaritas. The pandemic ravaged 10 states. greenlightedThe ability for grocery or liquor shops to deliver alcohol directly to your door. The total state that allows store-to–consumer alcohol delivery is now over 40.
The reforms did not exclude alcohol producers. Most states let wine be shipped directly to their consumers, but only few allowed beer to be delivered locally or transported long distance. But during COVID-19, 13 states ExpansionBreweries and distilleries have the capability to bring everything we need, including growlers and fifths of bourbon, right to our doors.
In an age in which almost every product that consumers want is online and available via the mail, alcohol was left behind until COVID-19. Even with all this, it is still very difficult to ship alcohol. across state linesThis shows we still have a way to go before there is a true national market for alcohol.
You can be strong. Policy justificationsFor expanding to-go, and for delivering alcohol after the pandemic. One of the biggest producers of craft alcohol is Craft Alcohol. strongest proponents of expanding delivery options since doing so gives them direct market access to their consumer base—something that businesses in most other industries take for granted. Restaurants and bars operate independently, which is why they are so well-known for their independence. Margins of profit very lowThe ability to increase alcohol sales could be vitally important for economic survival.
A majority of consumers support increased alcohol delivery. The Distilled Spirits Council has data to support this claim. 80 percentA majority of Americans desire to order their favorite distilled spirit directly from the distillery and have it shipped to them. Consumer SurveysNot only do they want to make the cocktails available everywhere, but also that it is permanent.
In the extreme Most arguments about the unprecedented growth of delivery and to-go alcohol emphasize alcohol’s intoxicating nature. This overlooks the fact that far more dangerous substances—such as pharmaceuticals, ammunition, and pesticides—have been part of the delivery economy for decades with little issue.
Some opponents also highlighted the possibility for even more underage drinkingIn a world in which alcohol is delivered and included in take-out orders. This is a mistake. The state governments made it clear, yet again: the strict ID-ing protocol that applies to alcohol sales in a restaurant or store also applies for takeout and delivery alcohol.
It is evident that delivery and to-go alcohol are here to stay. America has been witness to one of America’s most rapid-moving policy tsunamis. This is in the 18 months since its creation. There are no signs that it will slow down.