The DABS has 37 package agency contracts available to Utahns interested in operating liquor stores as independent contractors in rural areas of the state, including Kamas and Coalville.
Package agencies are essentially small retail liquor stores that may be operated in hotels and resorts or less-populated areas of the state where the alcohol market is sparse, as DABS Director Tiffany Clason explains.
“They’re different from our state liquor stores though because they’re not managed by us, they’re managed by private citizens,” Clason said. “We approve these contracts in three-year increments, so the new contract period is upon us. And so we’re letting everyone know, if you’re a business owner or you’ve ever been interested in possibly having your own business as an independent contractor to run a package agency, now would be your time to get online and learn about the qualifications and complete an application to be considered.”
The open applications are for type 2 and type 3 package agencies. Type 2 stores are operated in conjunction with another business, like a convenience store, where the primary source of income is not liquor sales.
Type 3 stores are often located in rural areas farther away from state liquor stores.
Utah law allows one package agency for every 18,000 residents.
It’s $125 to apply. Other requirements include a background check and a business plan outlining financial projections and marketing strategies.
Contracts are subject to approval by the Alcoholic Beverage Services Commission.
Commission chair Steve Handy said they’re looking for applicants who “demonstrate good business management skills and understand the nature of the respective communities where they would operate.”
