Why is called a package store?

Answered by Andrew Fritz

A package store, also known as a liquor store or a bottle shop, is a term used to describe a retail establishment that sells alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption. The term “package store” originated in the United States, particularly in states that have strict regulations on the sale and distribution of .

The name “package store” may seem a bit peculiar at first, but it actually has historical roots that date back to the era of prohibition. During the period of prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were banned in the United States. However, after the repeal of prohibition, various restrictions were put in place to control the sale and consumption of alcohol.

One such restriction was the requirement for alcohol to be sold in a packaged state. This meant that alcoholic beverages had to be packaged and sealed in bottles or other containers before they could be sold to consumers. The purpose of this requirement was to ensure that the alcohol had been properly labeled, taxed, and regulated. Liquor stamps were often used to indicate that the alcohol had been packaged and stamped for sale in a specific state.

The term “package store” emerged as a way to distinguish these retail establishments from bars or taverns, where alcohol was typically consumed on-site. In a package store, customers would purchase their desired alcoholic beverages in a packaged form and take them home for consumption. This created a clear distinction between establishments that sold alcohol for immediate consumption and those that sold it for off-premises consumption.

The use of the term “package store” varies by region, and different states may have their own unique names for these types of establishments. For example, in some states, they are referred to as “liquor stores” or “bottle shops.” Regardless of the name, the underlying concept remains the same – a retail establishment that specializes in the sale of packaged alcoholic beverages.

In addition to the historical context, there are practical reasons why the term “package store” is still used today. By referring to these establishments as package stores, it clearly communicates to consumers that they can purchase alcohol in a packaged form, rather than expecting to consume it on-site. This distinction is particularly important in states where the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption is strictly regulated.

To summarize, the term “package store” originated from the regulations imposed after prohibition, which required alcoholic beverages to be sold in a packaged state. This term helps distinguish retail establishments that sell alcohol for off-premises consumption from bars or taverns where alcohol is consumed on-site. While the name may seem curious, it serves as a practical and historical reference to the regulations surrounding the sale and distribution of alcohol.