June 15 marks the 95^th anniversary of B.C.’s Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB). The LDB came into existence on this day in 1921. At the time, residents 21 years of age and older had to pay $5 for an annual permit to buy alcohol. Eighty products were available for sale at nine government operated stores.

Today there are many more public stores and many more products for sale. But one thing has not changed: the LDB, staffed by BCGEU members, continues to serve our province well. The LDB, which includes the public distribution system and 198 public stores, creates good jobs across the province, generates important public revenue to pay for public services, fundraises for important causes at home and abroad, and retails alcohol in a socially responsible manner.

There have been a few challenges along the way. Our union has fought back more than one attempt to privatize the LDB. British Columbians have also shown overwhelming support for the public distribution and retailing of alcohol in our province.

Here’s to another 95 years of the LDB.

Remember…there are lots of reasons to Shop Public.