The stores' inventory is owned by the state. The Commission pays agents monthly compensation for their retail services. The agents' compensation is based on a formula which includes monthly sales volume. Agents use the compensation to pay for daily operating expenses, personnel, and capital improvements. Types of Stores More than 150 of the Commission's 235 agents run exclusive liquor stores.
Exclusive stores are high volume businesses whose primary function is to sell liquor.
Exclusive stores can sell some related items such as glassware and foods used in drinks. There are more than 80 non-exclusive liquor stores which are operated in conjunction with other businesses like hardware, drug or grocery stores. Most non-exclusive liquor stores are located outside of metropolitan areas. To ensure adequate services, we require liquor stores to be open a minimum of eight hours a day, except Sundays and legal holidays. The Merchandising Program consists of three divisions.