NLC stores prepare to close to walk-in traffic Saturday

Corporate Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporationstores are closing to the generalpublic on Saturday amid concerns over the spread of COVID-19.

The Crown corporation posted on its social media pagesWednesday evening that a plan is in place to allow customers to order by phone or online, and pickup items at specific stores.

News of the impending closures spread fast with reports of lineups outside of some liquor stores shortly after the closurewas announced.

However, many customers appear to understand the decision, and even agreed with it.

"I think it's a good idea. It's hard times. Everyone needs to do their part," one man told CBC News on Thursday while leaving a liquor store in St. John's with his arms full of bottles.

One woman said she doesn't think it's a big deal.

"I think it's just one more level of how big this thing is. It's kind of frightening people, I think, once the liquor stores close," she said.

The NLC had to issue a followup later Wednesday night clarifying that online and phone orders were not available yet, and asked for patience.

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