Things just got a lot more spirited in the Keystone State. Beginning Monday, September 16th, 2024, you can now purchase ready-to-drink cocktails in places such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and more.
Ready-to-drink cocktails
However, in July 2024, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law Act 86, allowing for the sale of ready-to-drink cocktails. Indeed, RTDCs have soared in popularity in recent years, especially during the COVID pandemic when bars and restaurants were shut down. In fact, by fiscal year 2028-2029, its projected ready-to-drink cocktails will bring in about $35 million annually in state revenue.
Now you can grab canned cocktails such as High Noon and Surfside at more places. Find them in supermarkets, gas stations, restaurants, and retailers of malt beverages.
“Thanks to our bipartisan budget, you will soon be able to go get ready-to-drink cocktails – some made right here in Pennsylvania – at places like grocery stores and gas stations,” said Governor Shapiro in an August press release. “…This is what real freedom looks like, and we did it in a way that protects taxpayers and supports our state workers.”
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board
In order to sell RTDCs, such retailers must first apply for a permit through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). The cost of the permit is $2500. Notably, there are some stipulations on when the drinks can be sold.
According to the PLCB, restaurant, hotel, distributor and importing distributor licensees who have a permit can only RTDC-to-go on Mondays through Saturdays until 11:00 p.m.
Additionally, restaurant and hotel licensees with a Sunday sales permit may sell RTDC until 11:00 p.m. on Sundays.