It may seem hard to believe in a state that claims to believe in and promote free markets, but it’s true. Texas law currently forbids publicly traded companies from owning liquor stores. Check out this great article and video explainer from the Texas Tribune:
Judge's ruling would let Texas consumers buy booze from Walmart and Costco
Texans can't find their favorite spirit on the shelves of their local Walmart or Costco. A ruling issued by a federal court in Austin could soon change that. http://bit.ly/2HWshSz
Posted by Texas Tribune on Monday, March 26, 2018
Unlike residents of more than 30 U.S. states and many foreign nations, Texans who want to buy a fifth of vodka or bourbon can’t find their favorite spirit on the shelves of their local Walmart or Costco. A landmark ruling issued by a federal court in Austin could soon change that . . .
The Texas law that was struck down — unique in the United States — forbids publicly traded businesses from owning liquor stores while allowing family-owned companies to grow into giant chains without fear of competition from large national or international corporations . . .
If the late Tuesday ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman survives appeals, Texas consumers — like those in at least 31 other states and many foreign countries — will be able to buy vodka, tequila and bourbon from Walmart-owned stores and other multinational retailer outlets.