By Vernon Freeman Jr.
Virginia ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) celebrated the grand opening of their newest store Friday, located at 13113 River’s Bend Blvd. in the River’s Bend Shopping Center in Chester.
The Chester store is the third ABC store to open in the state in 2016, bringing the total number in the Commonwealth to 358.
Virginia ABC officials said the new location makes it easier for customers traveling along Route 10 in eastern Chesterfield County.
“I think Chesterfield residents have been waiting for this store’s arrival for some time and will respond positively to having a new store in their area,” said Virginia ABC Chairman Jeffrey Painter.
The new location is 3,033 square feet and will offer more than 1,300 products, including 252 bourbon items, 304 vodka items and a wide selection of Virginia-made wine and spirits.
“Virginia ABC is excited about the retail opportunity in Chester and pleased to be at the forefront of providing customer service and convenience,” said Painter. “We are always seeking new locations to make our extensive product selection available for Virginia shoppers.”
The grand opening event included a ribbon cutting, informal store tours, refreshments and the first 25 customers received a free gift.
The store will be open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1 to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is a major source of revenue for the commonwealth, contributing more than $1.8 billion to the general fund in the last five years. The agency currently operates 358 state stores. Its Bureau of Law Enforcement oversees more than 16,000 ABC licensed establishments while the Hearings and Appeals Division considers more than 700 cases each year. The agency also provides alcohol education and prevention programs for people of all ages. Now marking its 82nd year, ABC remains committed to progress and innovation in carrying out its control, service and revenue mission.
