NLC cancels new pricing system after consumer backlash

The Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation has abruptly cancelled a new pricing policy after only a week.

Sticker prices were changed just after Labour Day to show the cost before taxes, instead of the final after-tax price.

President Steve Winter said the new system went over poorly with some customers.

"I think we saw the handwriting on the wall," Winter said in an interview.

"We didn't really think that people would care that much. We didn't think the change was that significant. It's the way most products are priced in most stores and [is] pretty normal."

Winter said customers were quick to tell staff they could not understand why the NLC changed a system they did not think was broken.

• NLC shifting to pre-tax pricing system

Last winter, the NLC began shifting toward a new pricing system, by showing consumers both the pre-tax and final prices on store shelves.