Pugwash Liquor Store Last of Its Kind

March 7, 1998, will mark the end of an era when the Pugwash Liquor Store closes its doors. It is the last liquor store in Nova Scotia to offer over-the-counter service.

At one time, all liquor stores in the province required customers to place orders at the counter. A "case" or a "quart" was often the order, meaning customers wanted the most popular brands at that store. Thirty-three liquor stores were first opened in 1930.

Fast forward to 1998. The Nova Scotia Liquor Commission now operates 98 modern self-serve outlets in convenient locations across the province. Beginning March 11, customers in Pugwash will be able to browse through shelves stocked with a wide selection of beer, wine and spirits and serve themselves at a new store on Durham Street. Parking is available at the outlet, which is conveniently located next to the Co-op store.

"After picking up something for dinner at the Co-op, shoppers can just walk next door to the liquor store for an appropriate bottle of wine," said Yvonne Melanson, director of merchandising services for the liquor commission.

"Our new Pugwash store will continue to offer the same friendly service along with the modern convenience customers have come to expect," said Bruce Rogers, the commission's executive director of retail services.

Cold canned beer, speedy wine chillers, wine and food suggestions, credit- and debit-card service and bottle returns are only a few of the products and services available at many liquor stores in the province.

"The needs and tastes of our customers constantly change," said Ms. Melanson. "We are glad to adapt to offer the best service possible."