NORTH CAROLINA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL
Bauer has prioritized modernizing the commission ’ s warehouse .
A more modern warehouse would also increase the Commission ’ s ability to process special orders more efficiently . Currently , 3,100 products are available as regularly listed items , but the Commission also has 6,200 special order products available for ABC boards to order . It generally takes between three to four weeks to deliver special orders to stores , due to warehouse inefficiencies , which Bauer says will dramatically improve once a new facility is in place .
The $ 180-million proposal will be formally brought before the state legislature in early 2023 . Although construction time is estimated , Bauer hopes a new warehouse could be operational within 14 months after the start of construction — ideally before the end of 2024 . The Commission would then discontinue use of the current warehouse , which could be sold to help finance the new facility .
IMPROVING TECHNOLOGY Along with warehouse enhancements , another area of focus for the NC ABC Commission is upgrading information technology .
When Bauer became Chairman , the 85-employee organization and its extensive technological infrastructure lacked any kind of IT department , which is currently in development . Outdated websites and cumbersome application processes have long frustrated the Commission and its partners .
“ This is 2023 , and these types of issues are absolutely unnecessary ,” Bauer says . “ We are doing everything we can to revolutionize the online experience for our partners , and eliminate cumbersome inefficiencies .”
Currently in development , a $ 1.5-million website-enhancement project will allow customers to view inventory levels , and see detailed information about the liquor products obtained by the
state of North Carolina . Additional website features are also in development , including an online permit application process and expanded education resources for parents , community members and licensees , with the goal of serving as a go-to resource for individuals seeking clarification on the many different alcohol statutes across the state . Also , the website will showcase information about the many ways in which the Commission gives back to the state of North Carolina , such as the $ 671 million-plus that the agency has contributed to the state and local communities last year , following a record-breaking $ 1.73 billion in total sales .
“ We are definitely asking the state to invest in the future of the Commission , but when you look at the large dollar amount that we invest back into the state year after year , it makes even more sense ,” Bauer says . “ Those dollars will not only help us improve business operations , but they are also allocated in many other ways across the state . Even if you aren ’ t a drinker , you benefit from the work we do .”
PRIORITIZING EDUCATION AND ENFORCEMENT Along with making significant financial contributions to the state , the Commission is also focused on education and enforcement efforts . Its most notable education program , Talk It Out , is a statewide multimedia campaign that aims to reduce underage drinking across the state .
Originally launched in 2014 , the campaign encourages parents and other adults to speak with young people early , frequently and honestly about the dangers of alcohol , and to teach them effective prevention strategies . Several resources are available on the campaign website , TalkItOutNC . org , including conversation starters and pledge programs for parents and coaches .
The website also includes research from the Bowles Center
18 StateWays | www . stateways . com | Spring 2023