We won’t have much longer to wait until we know the decision which will change the shopping landscape in Switzerland – will Migros start selling alcohol?
There’ll be a vote of the 2.3 million Migros cooperatives around the country on June 4th which will decide if the long-standing policy will change.
The retailer stopped selling alcohol in 1928, three years after its formation. It’s founder Gottlieb Duttweiler wanted to fight the powerful alcohol industry and prevent alcohol abuse.
Alcoholism was widespread at the time – but contrary to some reports, Duttweiler was not a teetotaller himself.
For the policy to change, a two thirds majority will be needed. But it seems likely to pass as there are no serious calls from the cooperatives to keep the ban.
It’s planned beer, wine and spirits will be on the shelves from next year. The ban on tobacco sales will stay.