Beer and wine have become a popular addition to military commissaries, and it seems they are here to stay. With 26 stores currently selling alcohol and a push to increase that number, it’s clear that convenience is a driving factor. John E. Hall, the CEO and director of the Defense Commissary Agency, stated that he no longer considers it a pilot program, but rather a permanent offering.
It makes sense that commissaries would want to offer beer and wine, as most commercial grocery stores do. Hall emphasized that it’s all about convenience for shoppers. Being able to pick up a bottle of wine while buying a steak or grabbing some beer to go with burgers is a desirable option for many customers.
The success of the 26 commissaries currently selling alcohol is evident in the sales numbers. Compared to June 2022, there was a 153% increase in dollar sales and a 144% increase in unit volume for beer and wine in June of this year. Additionally, in fiscal year 2023, commissaries have sold $3.6 million worth of alcohol, a 119% increase compared to the same period in fiscal year 2022.
However, the addition of alcohol sales in commissaries has resulted in a shift in sales from Army & Air Force Exchange stores to commissaries. In the first six months of the 14 additional stores selling alcohol, there was less than a 0.5% increase in overall beer and wine sales on military installations, with a 5% shift in sales from AAFES stores to commissaries. This shift has led to increased administrative and inventory costs for AAFES, resulting in negative earnings and decreased funding for quality of life programs.
To minimize potential impacts on exchange profits and morale, welfare, and recreation programs, alcohol is purchased for resale from the military exchanges at commissaries. There is also a limited selection available, as officials do not want to displace other essential items.
The 14 additional commissaries currently selling beer and wine include three Navy locations: Port Hueneme, California; Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station, New Jersey; and Little Creek, Virginia. The other nine stores in the original 2018 pilot program are Twentynine Palms, California; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada; White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico; Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina; Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee; Fort Sam Houston, Texas; and Fort Myer and Quantico Marine Corps Base, Virginia.
While the future of alcohol sales in commissaries remains uncertain, there are ongoing discussions among resale partners to determine the next steps following the pilot program. The intention is to ensure a coordinated approach that aligns with DoD requirements for responsible alcohol use, including age restrictions and quantity limitations.
Overall, the addition of beer and wine to military commissaries has proven successful in terms of convenience and sales. It remains to be seen how this will continue to evolve, but for now, it seems that these libations are here to stay.
Title: Reevaluating Alcohol Sales on Military Bases: A Call for Change
Introduction:
Alcohol consumption has long been a topic of concern within the military community. With a recent report linking excessive drinking to increased suicide risk, it is crucial to address this issue and explore potential solutions. As we delve into this complex topic, we must question why alcohol is sold on military bases and whether there are ways to mitigate the negative impact it may have on service members. In this blog post, we will examine the recommendations put forth by the Suicide Prevention and Response Independent Review Committee and discuss the need for change in the sale and promotion of alcohol within the Department of Defense (DoD) properties.
Understanding the Concerns:
According to the independent committee’s report, excessive and problematic alcohol use is a national public health issue that directly influences suicide risk. Shockingly, data from 2021 reveals that 18% of service members who died by suicide had an alcohol use disorder diagnosis. These alarming statistics highlight a pressing need for action. However, the committee did not suggest outright banning the sale of alcohol on military bases. Instead, they proposed a comprehensive set of measures aimed at curtailing the promotion and availability of alcohol within DoD properties.
Proposed Solutions:
The committee’s recommendations address various aspects of alcohol sales on military bases. First and foremost, they suggest implementing a moratorium on in-store advertising for all types of alcohol in on-base retail establishments. By reducing exposure to alcohol advertisements, it is believed that the military culture surrounding drinking can be mitigated. Additionally, the committee advises increasing the purchase price of alcohol sold on DoD property. This strategy aims to deter excessive consumption and encourage responsible drinking habits within the military community.
Moreover, the committee calls for limitations on the days and times when alcohol can be sold on DoD property. By imposing stricter regulations, it is hoped that individuals will have fewer opportunities to engage in hazardous drinking behavior. These measures may help create an environment that promotes healthier choices and reduces the risk of alcohol-related problems, including suicide.
Challenging the Status Quo:
As Karen, an experienced journalist, has covered military families and consumer issues for over 30 years, her insights shed light on the need for reform. It is essential to question the current practices regarding the sale of alcohol on military bases. While some may argue that it infringes upon personal liberty, the potential benefits of restricted alcohol availability cannot be ignored. By taking proactive steps to combat excessive drinking, the military can create a safer and healthier environment for its service members.
Conclusion:
Excessive alcohol consumption within the military poses a significant concern, particularly regarding suicide risk. Although alcohol is currently sold on military bases, it is crucial to reassess the associated risks and the potential impact on service members. The recommendations put forth by the Suicide Prevention and Response Independent Review Committee offer a starting point for change. By adopting a holistic approach that includes limited advertising, increased pricing, and stricter sales regulations, the military can promote responsible drinking habits and reduce the negative consequences associated with alcohol misuse. As we move forward, let us prioritize the well-being of our service members and work towards creating a culture that supports their long-term health and happiness.
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