Factors that Facilitate the Adoption of Malt Liquor Policies: The Role of Liquor Retailers

Purpose: Malt liquor is a cheap, high-alcohol beer that is widely available in inner cities, where it is associated with problems such as public inebriation, violence, and crime. Cities such as Washington D.C. and Seattle, WA have adopted policies to restrict malt liquor sales. Other cities have considered such policies, but have not implemented them. While the experience of these cities may be useful to others wishing to restrict malt liquor sales, it is not known what factors may facilitate or impede policy adoption.

Methods: Data were drawn from in-person key informant interviews (n=57) in 10 U.S. cities that have adopted or considered policies to restrict malt liquor sales. Key informants were selected if they had substantive knowledge of the malt liquor policies, and included neighborhood groups and local residents, alcohol advocacy groups, alcohol retailers, city officials, and local police. Transcripts were initially coded by one researcher which transformed the data from dialogue to conceptual themes. Two researchers independently read and coded main sub-themes, and compared and discussed their findings until consensus was reached.

Results: Retailers were perceived as outsiders (i.e., non-English speakers) who were not always socially responsible. Overall resistance and language barriers from business owners may have impeded policy adoption. However, some retailers were perceived as allies with strong community connections. Stronger partnerships with these retailers may have helped policy adoption.

Discussion: Retailers may be opposing forces for the policy implementation process. They also may be important allies. Understanding the business climate may be crucial for policy adoption.