by KYW's Tony Romeo
In an alcohol “control” state like Pennsylvania, the question arises: what is the proper balance between advertising adult beverages and not promoting excessive drinking?
PJ Stapleton, the chairman of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, vigorously defends his agency’s advertising efforts, saying consumers want and expect it:
“They would like to know of opportunities that they have within the Commonwealth to purchase certain products, certainly when products are on sale.”
And Stapleton (right) says the informational aspect of the LCB’s advertising is critical:
“And if you look at our advertising compared to some of our competitors, it’s not just a picture of a bottle with a price next to it. There’s an explanation about how the product can be used. It’s much more of a social consciousness and a responsible enjoyment of the product than it is simply price."
And for those who believe that Pennsylvania continuing as a control state is good social policy, state representative Robert Donatucci (D-Phila.), who chairs the House Liquor Control Committee, points out that a consumer-hostile, unprofitable LCB would only ratchet up the pressure to privatize:
“Liquor is going to be sold in Pennsylvania if we advertise it or not. And basically, Pennsylvania, like it or not, we’re in the liquor business.”
In the last fiscal year, the LCB contributed $428 million to Pennsylvania’s general fund.
(Graphic and photo by KYW's Ed Fischer)
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