Kamloops wine sales battle spills over to Salmon Arm

Jun 7, 2016 | 6:21 AM

KAMLOOPS — A Salmon Arm liquor store is punishing local wineries for their advocacy in favour of Save-On Foods selling their products in Kamloops.

Kamloops wineries, including Monte Creek and Harper’s Trail, have been squarely behind a push by the grocery store to sell BC wine on its shelves.

That effort was denied last month by Kamloops council, though Save-On says the battle isn’t over.

But in an email sent to Monte Creek and Harper’s Trail, the manager of the Hideaway Liquor Store in Salmon Arm says the store won’t stock their products anymore.

Pat Brede says the fact that the two wineries are pursuing partnerships with Save-On means they have no concern for private liquor stores.

Brede says Hideaway will pull their products from its shelves and return it.

However, a representative from Monte Creek Winery contacted CFJC News this afternoon, saying the liquor store is, in fact, continuing to carry its product.

CFJC News placed a call to Hideaway Liquor Store today, but Brede gave no comment before hanging up abruptly.