According to a New York Post report, the State Liquor Authority (SLA) is rejecting up to 70% of license applications this year. They cite fears that new stores could force existing shops out of business. The crackdown comes as alcohol sales in New York have plunged by as much as 25% this year, with similar drops last year, according to the Post and liquor license attorney Max Bookman.
The pandemic-era spike in liquor and beer sales has fizzled out, with beer sales down nearly 6%, spirits down 5.6%, and wine down 9%. Rising prices, tighter budgets, and health concerns are driving consumers away from traditional alcoholic beverages.