Liquor sales surged in 2020 for Bemidji and beyond

Economic data from the state and city of Bemidji show sales increased during 2020. Officials noted restaurant and bar closures to slow the coronavirus as one of the main reasons for the rise

Feb 22, 20210

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BEMIDJI -- Liquor sales increased substantially in 2020 across the state of Minnesota, including right here in Bemidji.

According to data from the Minnesota Department of Revenue, gross liquor receipts last year increased about 20% for municipal and non-municipal liquor stores. Locally, the city of Bemidji operates two liquor stores inside its limits, and in total, sales increased about 29%.

Bemidji Finance Director Ron Eischens said the municipal operations for 2020 generated $8.4 million in sales, up from $6.5 million in 2019. Additionally, the store had 35,000 more customers from the year before.

https://www.bemidjipioneer.com/business/6895572-Liquor-sales-surged-in-2020-for-Bemidji-and-beyond