WOODBRIDGE, N.J. — Wegmans Food Markets is seeking consumer support for a proposed beer, wine and spirits store that would operate within its location here.
The retailer hopes to lease a defined portion of its Woodbridge store to a liquor store tenant, just as it does in other locations in the state. But it’s facing opposition based on a town ordinance that prohibits liquor stores from selling anything other than alcoholic beverages. Despite the proximity, the two businesses would operate independently of one another, according to Wegmans.
“Wegmans itself will not sell any alcoholic beverages,” it stated in an email to shoppers.
The Woodbridge Township Council will meet Tuesday to rule on the tenant’s liquor license application. In the meantime, Wegmans is encouraging shoppers to sign a “Dear Council Member” form email to show their support for Wegmans’ plan.
This is not the first time the chain has faced objection to creative alcoholic beverage-selling plans. Last year, the Pennsylvania Malt Beverage Distributors Association unsuccessfully challenged Wegmans’ right to sell beer from the Market Cafes of several Pennsylvania locations. The retailer obtained restaurant licenses in order to do so.
