Oklahoma liquor store data hurts sales-restriction arguments

Recently, there’s been a push to overhaul Oklahoma’s liquor laws and allow grocery stores and similar outlets to sell wine or strong beer. So far, sellers benefitting from current restrictions have won the day; state regulations have remained intact.

Recent trends suggest many entrepreneurs expect little change in future years.

The number of liquor stores in Oklahoma has reached 666, the highest total in decades. In 2001, there were just 538. Some have suggested wine sales in grocery stores would increase underage drinking, but it would seem the growth of liquor stores would have the same potential impact.

From a free-market perspective, the increased number of outlets should boost competition and keep consumer prices lower, benefiting consumers. But allowing grocery stores to sell wine would do the same.

As a result, the growth of liquor stores is actually undermining arguments for the sales restrictions that benefit them.