HARRISBURG, Pa.—The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) launched a pilot program involving two self-service wine kiosks located at grocery stores in Dauphin and Cumberland counties.
Simple Brands LLC of Conshohocken, the developer of the kiosk technology, will stock a variety of wines at optimal temperatures and provide detailed information for interested consumers.
The kiosk technology is to assure compliance with the Liquor Control Board's strict measures to prevent sales to underage or intoxicated persons. The buyer's driver's license is inserted into the kiosk, where age information on the bar code is processed. The photograph on the driver's license is matched with a video image of the buyer at the kiosk. A Liquor Control Board employee will monitor each transaction from a remote location and confirm that the video of the purchaser matches the purchaser's ID.
The kiosks have a built-in breathalyzer that requires no contact with the device and provides an instantaneous reading to ensure the buyer is not under the influence. If a breath alcohol level of .02 or higher is detected, the consumer will be unable to make a purchase. The entire process will take less than 20 seconds.
If the pilot proves successful, the program will be expanded in up to 100 supermarket locations across Pennsylvania, as part of the PLCB's multi-faceted effort to enhance customer convenience.
The Liquor Control Board hopes to assure and promote responsible use of alcohol through regulation and education.
