The store is built, everyone's excited, and now we can put a date on when the brand new Liquor Mart will open up in Dauphin.
"Barring any unforeseen issues, of course, we're aiming to have our soft launch on the weekend of August 17," said Laurel Trotter, Communications Officer for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries. "Then we'll have our "Grand Opening" event in the first week or two of September once everything is settled in, and we have everything running smoothly."
Compared to the current LM location, the new one will be 1200 square-feet larger, which means you might be able to get your hands on something you couldn't at the old location.
"That's going to allow us to bring in some more exciting products to feature on the shelves," said Trotter.
At some current LM's, a "Growler Bar" is featured which allows the customers to pour their own craft beers. Trotter doesn't expect that to happen for now, but it may down the road.
"I don't think it's in the plans as of yet," said Trotter. "But, we're always looking for new opportunities. I think they want to see how the new location goes before they make any additional changes."
With the opening of the new store, you can also expect things to work a little bit differently... but don't worry, it's all to benefit the customer.
"It's going to have a single-lane checkout, so folks all funnel through the same lane, and everyone will find it progresses through the line quicker that way," said Trotter. "There will also be a sampling station so people can taste different products on the weekend."
Not only is every customer excited to get the chance to shop at a brand new store that'll feature a bigger selection, but each and every employee is excited about the transition as well.
"The employees are not only excited to work in the new building, but they really want to show it off to all of the customers," said Trotter. "Everyone's really excited for the doors to open. I really think it's going to be really energizing for everyone in the Parkland when the doors open."
The first stock shipment has already arrived for the new location.
"We're really looking forward to opening up next weekend," added Trotter.