The Mecklenburg ABC Board decided this week it would purchase unopened bottles of alcohol from bars and restaurants in order to help restaurants increase their cash reserves on hand. Restaurants can return up to 100 bottles, with a value that cannot exceed $3,000. Each permittee is allowed one return, and purchases must have been made this year.

The $3.75 mixed beverage tax charged per .75 liter bottle, however, will not be refunded. If a restaurant were to return the maximum number of bottles, they would lose $375. Restaurant owners face the decision of deciding whether the loss is worth the extra capital on hand, as they will have to repurchase the liquor — and repay the tax — when they reopen. According to the ABC Board, the taxes have already been remitted to the state. On the retail side, media outlets have been reporting Mecklenburg County has seen a jump in liquor sales of about 30 percent. Liquor stores have been deemed essential.

The board is setting aside up to $1 million for the buyback. Restaurants and bars can apply for a refund until May 14, 2020 at the main facility on North Tryon Street and return their bottles during a scheduled appointment. A check should be issued within 10 business days. —Kristen Wile

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