TACOMA — Last year’s auction of the former state liquor stores held promise for dozens of small entrepreneurs. Many now say they are struggling to stay in business.
The News-Tribune reports that 19 months after the auction, more than 60 percent of those who bought former state stores are out of business. The Washington Liquor Store Association says most of the rest are headed in that direction. Among those stores still open, many owe money to the state and suppliers.
Nearly two dozen remaining stores are in danger of losing their licenses because they owe the state fees on liquor already sold.
