Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Office Hours

Dry Fly Distilling says it’s too soon to predict outcomes from I-1183

One quick thought when we learned state voters approved the initiative that would privatize liquor sales was how that might affect boutique spirit-maker Dry Fly Distilling, producer of vodka, gin, whiskey and bourbon.

We went out and asked co-founder Don Poffenroth whether removing the state from the taxing and distribution of liquor would be positive or negative for Dry Fly. Would having more outlets change its sale picture? What effect would this have on taxes imposed on sales of spirits?

Don's quick answer: Nothing will change, of course, in the next six months, and not until the actual switch occurs next year.

Over time, the horizon is murky, he said, noting: "(the six months) will give us plenty of time to figure it out! We figured out how to build this, get laws changed, and continue to grow. This (change) won't stop us or slow us down. Too early to figure out how (it) will play out."

He added: "With 1183, we will pay both taxes and new fees which should be lower than the current taxes and markup. The question will be how we will be allowed to price (our products)."

 

"



The Spokesman-Review business team follows economic development in Spokane and the Inland Northwest.