Michigan faces liquor shortage ahead of holiday season

DETROIT – Michigan is in the middle of a liquor shortage right before the winter holiday season. The shortage is affecting bars, restaurants and customers.

Mr. B’s Gastropub on Main Street in Royal Oak is a popular place on Saturday nights with entertainment, food and plenty of alcohol.

Due to the recent liquor shortage, chef and owner Johnny Prepolec said staff has had to try to steer customers toward different brands.

“It’s very inconvenient for us," Prepolec said. "What it’s really come down to is that we’re getting our deliveries a couple days late.”

Late deliveries can cause huge issues for bars and restaurants. Prepolec said it has significantly affected their weekend stock.

The lack of liquor is a state-wide concern.

“All the bars are in the same position," Prepolec said. "I really hope they get it back on schedule because it’s a pain.”

The problem comes from one of Michigan’s distribution companies that’s having software issues which are impacting deliveries.

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission is attempting to implement a corrective plan to address the liquor shortage.

“We all feel the pain," Prepolec said. "I hope it gets resolved really quickly.”


About the Authors:

Dane is a producer and media enthusiast. He previously worked freelance video production and writing jobs in Michigan, Georgia and Massachusetts. Dane graduated from the Specs Howard School of Media Arts.