The Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS) has opened applications for business-minded individuals interested in operating retail liquor stores, known as package agencies, in rural areas of the state, including Northern Utah.
According to DABS Director Tiffany Clason, package agencies function like small retail liquor stores, serving communities where state-run liquor outlets are sparse. These stores are deeply integrated into the fabric of Utah’s smaller towns, providing convenience for residents and tourists.
Package agency contracts are currently awarded in three Northern Utah locations, at 19 West Main Street in Richmond; 15 North 1600 East in Tremonton; and 585 North Bear Lake Road in Garden City.
“Utahns are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, and we hope to receive a diverse and qualified pool of applicants,” said Clason.
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.
“The commission looks forward to a robust, competitive process,” said commission chair Steve Handy. “We’re seeking applicants with strong business management skills who understand the unique nature of their communities.”
Most current package agency operators have managed their stores successfully for years, and Clason anticipates many will reapply for the fiscal year 2025–2028 contracts.
For more information or to apply, visit abs.utah.gov/package-agencies.