Liquor Licences for Cinemas?

Liquor Licence -   We wondered whether we would get any reaction from our members and Blog readers to this question, which has been asked more frequently during the past year.   We did some research on the position abroad, specifically in the United States,  where it is becoming increasingly common for movie theaters to sell liquor.   We came across a cinema in the state of Minnesota, which had recently been awarded an expanded liquor licence, allowing moviegoers to imbibe while watching the big screen.

This theater was granted a liquor licence in November 2014,  restricting liquor sales and consumption to a proposed restaurant/lounge area.   They proceeded to request their Liquor Board to expand the licence conditions, which was subsequently approved, subject to two further licence conditions - only one drink may be sold to a person at a time and a representative from the theater is to report back to the Liquor Board within six months.

The Liquor Board expressed concern about, underage drinking and oversight, but these fears were allayed by the assurance that staff members were trained extensively and that the theatre were serious about compliance.   

We doubt whether the large South African cinema companies will apply for liquor licences for their premises. However,  it may be an option for independent cinema businesses and theatres, who could do with additional income and attendance, given the current economic climate.   We have no doubt that it would be appreciated by patrons!
(Article by LiquorWise)