In Michigan, a Proposal to Legalize Self-Serve Beer & Wine

Michigan (my home state!) State Representative Rodney Wakeman put forth a proposal on Tuesday, Feb 24th that would legalize self-serve beer and wine in Michigan.

By "self serve," the proposal refers to consumers pouring their own beer and wine in controlled quantities at bars or restaurants.

I have been to a bar like this in New York. I got a card from the bartender and then used it to scan at a tap, served myself beer, and I could repeat this as often as I wished. You close it out when you're ready to leave, just like you would at any other bar. I used it to try new things, and it was nice to not feel bottlenecked by the server.

There is a business called I Pour It, which is the leader in this self serve technology. According to their website, clients who implement this system see an average of 39% revenue increased from self-serve technology. Patrons often try higher-priced options since they can pour only as much as they want. There are also operational benefits that lead to higher bottom line, such as staffing fewer servers and eliminating keg loss. I was surprised to learn that keg yield in the industry is only 76%, meaning 24% is lost or damaged instead of being drank!

The success of I Pour It shows that this packaging format has been engaging to consumers as well as profitable for retail operations. I think this could be an exciting path forward for wineries, wine bars, and tax revenue for states like Michigan

Sources:
http://gophouse.org/rep-wakeman-plan-legalizes-self-serve-beer-and-wine/
https://www.ipouritinc.com/the-ipourit-story/
https://www.ipouritinc.com/why-self-serve/