On January 26, 2022, the New York State Liquor Authority issued a Declaratory Ruling regarding the eligibility of New York movie theaters to apply for and obtain on-premises retail licenses for beer and wine service. This is a value-add for theaters, and it allows businesses to provide a new amenity to customers and increase their revenues. The Authority determined that theaters would be eligible for these licenses provided the following:
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They can establish the theater will prepare and serve food;
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The primary source of revenue for the theater will be from the ticket sales and/or snacks; and
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The revenue from the sales of alcoholic beverages (beer and wine only) will be incidental to revenues from tickets and food offerings.