MOUNT VERNON — A stronger second-round application helped the Kroger Co. win the liquor contract formerly held by Rite Aid.
According to Kristen Castle, director of brand and marketing strategy for the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control, Kroger joined 10 other sites in initially applying for the license.
However, none of the applications met DOLC’s standards.
“All second-round applicants raised the bar on application requirements. Again, there is a wide range of factors considered during this process, including location, shelf space, technology, business plan, timing, etc.,” Castle told Knox Pages via email.
“[Kroger’s] application was improved and strengthened. Namely, the business plan and operational strategy was greatly improved and focused specifically on selling high-proof spirits responsibly at that location,” Castle said.
Renovations coming
Castle said the DOLC does not require Kroger to complete any renovations. However, she said the 855 Coshocton Ave. location plans to undergo construction to sell high-proof spirits in a separated location within the store.
“The goal is to be operational by the fall, before the holidays, pending construction,” she wrote.
In addition to renovations, operational factors include obtaining permits, planning and setting up shelf space and inventory, point of sale and OHLQ technology requirements, OHLQ signage, and managing retail and wholesale accounts.
DOLC notified the Kroger Co. on May 14 that it won the contract.
Mark Bruce, corporate affairs manager of Kroger, said details aren’t finalized.
“We are still working through the permitting and approvals process. We did receive approval to take that liquor permit, and we are moving forward with building that liquor store and serving our customers,” he said.
Rite Aid formerly held the liquor contract. Residents learned one year ago this month that the Rite Aid store planned to close on Aug. 25, 2024, at 4 Newark Road.
