3.2 percent beer in short supply

TULSA — Beer, beer everywhere but none for sale to drink.

That’s the concern among beer drinkers, and many retailers, as the state moves closer to the crossover from 3.2 percent beer to strong beer sales in convenience and grocery stores on Oct. 1.

Distributors and stores are juggling the arrival of strong beer and the need to clear their shelves of 3.2 products while trying to meet demand.

The result can be seen in the LDF Sales and Distributing warehouse where 500,000 cases of strong beer await shipment while shelves at nearby stores are empty.

“The intent was to be out of the market next week. We are probably out a little quicker than anticipated,” said Gerry Carnely, vice president of sales at LDF. “I know the consumer gets frustrated by the limited supply, but we feel like we are in a really good spot.”

James Wylkins, general manager at LDF, said that shelves should look even more barren come next week.

“Next week you probably won’t see much 3.2 out there. I bet most of it is going to be gone,” he said.

Distributors will not be buying back any unsold 3.2 products, so retailers are trying to ensure there is product in the cooler while at the same time ensuring they sell can most, if not all, of what they have on hand before the end of the month.

Many stores, like Walmart, sold their beer at a discount to ensure all 3.2 product was sold. They were successful, and now they are no longer selling beer until Oct. 1.