Summit County and rural Utah residents wanted to operate Liquor Stores

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS) said they are seeking applicants to manage small retail liquor stores, known as package agencies, in Summit County and rural areas across the state. These stores primarily serve communities where state-operated liquor stores are scarce.

Within Summit County DABS said they are seeking local privately managed liquor stores in Kamas and Coalville.

DABS Director Tiffany Clason described the opportunity as an integral part of Utah’s rural communities.

“Package agencies often look like small retail liquor stores located in rural parts of Utah where state liquor stores are sparse,” Clason said. “These stores are built into the fabric of tight-knit small towns, serving local residents and tourists visiting Utah’s scenic attractions.”

A total of 37 package agency contracts are available, each operating under a three-year agreement with the state. Applications are being accepted online through March 10, 2025, and the Alcoholic Beverage Services Commission will publicly review submissions in May to select operators.

Steve Handy, chair of the Alcoholic Beverage Services Commission, emphasized the importance of selecting skilled and community-focused operators.

“The commission hopes to see applicants that demonstrate good business management skills and understand the unique nature of the respective communities where they would operate,” Handy said.

About Package Agencies

Package agencies function like independent contractors for the state. Many current operators have held their contracts for years, and many are expected to reapply.

Utahns with entrepreneurial ambitions or experience in business management are encouraged to apply. For more information or to submit an application, visit the DABS website.