Saturday, January 31, 2009
About Time, for Wine... and Healthcare
Isn't it about time for wine to be sold and purchased freely in the state of Tennessee? We see this problem in the health care space I also work in - where state lines prevent individuals or small businesses from pooling together to spread their risk and be able to have more affordable choices when purchasing health care. This is America, the land of choices, and melting pots of taste and preference. We're about free markets that look to supply and demand - and only regulation when it protects us from corrupt power or promotes the "common good". The laws preventing common sense health care freedom of choice remind me of the regulation in TN (and other states) that prevent us from buying on-line, buying at Publix or other grocery stores, as well as getting the discounts and variety that larger chains bring. Now, we do get the benefit of the Grand Cru's of the world - who offer a small and personal boutique experience - but I content they would survive just fine - as free market forces would still bring me back... and other less interesting stores would fold - as they should - since they have not changed to attract customers in a 100 years - because all the laws are on their side. I want stores to earn my purchase. Try harder - knowing I have unlimited choice - and you will have made a better store and a more loyal customer. If you are interested in seeing the wine laws in TN change - check out: http://www.tnwinelovers.net/index.html
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2 comments:
There are signs of hope in terms of wine but it might be a ways off. The sad truth is, is that the people still have the power. That hasn't changed. But I do not think enough people care about such a change. Not yet anyway. There are dry counties in this state that approve the laws. There is money from the Wholesale companies (who created these laws) given to lobbiests to make sure the laws never change.
Did money change women's right to vote? Was the civil rights movements heavily financed? No, I don't believe so. People were passionate about changing perceptions and laws and it got done. Now wine is nowhere near on that scale—it's just wine. The laws concerning grocery stores will change in the next 2-3 years. Why? Because it might be bankrolled by Walgreen's or Publix potentially. Why would the wholesalers let those laws change? It gives them profit. Who do you think provides the wine for grocery stores??
To change the laws concerning free market/online wine purchases, your representative needs to fear his or her job is on the line. Walgreen's nor Publix wants you to purchase wine online.
I think another true crime is that Tennessee wineries cannot ship their wine within the state to your home. but that's another topic for another time!
Nice comment, NWP. Good to hear wine is coming to publix. Are there any down sides I am not considering? Won't prices go down?
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