Oregon Liquor Control Commission - Divisions

Divisions

• Regulatory Operations issues liquor licenses and alcohol service permits. Licenses are required for anyone who manufactures, distributes or sells alcoholic beverages in Oregon. Service permits are issued to employees who serve alcohol in restaurants, bars, or other businesses. Regulatory Operations also promotes compliance with liquor laws through education and proactive programs for licensees and permittees. This program also focuses on enforcement efforts geared toward reducing underage drinking.
• Merchandising Operations has three divisions: Purchasing, Distribution, and Store Operations. The Merchandising Program operates the state's retail liquor business, including supplying the 244 (as of September 2010) retail liquor stores. Oregon has been partially privatized since the 1980s. Oregon retail liquor stores are privately owned by independent small business contractors. The OLCC contracts with the independent business owners to sell Oregonians the distilled beverages they want, while operating a business that is one of the top revenue producers for the state. In fiscal year 2010, the OLCC contributed nearly $172 million to Oregon's general fund, county and city treasuries from the sales of distilled spirits, taxes on beer and wine and other revenue.
• Support Services consists of three divisions: Administration, Administrative Services, and Financial Services. The program provides support and administrative services for OLCC staff and numerous partners.