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Town unfair competition: pub owner Renting facilities for liquor-licensed events
taking a dig out of private companies market, owner arguesT. Shawn Giilck Northern News Services Published Thursday, March 14, 2013
Rick Adams, the owner of Frosty's Arctic Pub – perhaps better known as the Mad Trapper Pub – penned the letter to discuss whether the town was unfairly competing with businesses like his by allowing its facilities to be rented out to people planning parties and fundraising events where liquor is sold. "During these very difficult economic times, business owners such as myself find it harder each year to remain competitive in our market segment," Adams stated in the letter. "With the economy at an all-time low in Inuvik, of course we can expect lower sales in our establishment and we try to offset that with creative advertising and in-bar specials. Regrettably, it appears our biggest competitor in the liquor services community is the Town of Inuvik." Adams goes on to say he feels it is unfair that he and his staff of 15-25 employees had to compete with the town when it comes to liquor sales. The letter was the subject of much debate at council, and some angst, if not outright outrage. "I don't see where we're competing with businesses," said deputy-mayor Jim McDonald. "I see no reason for any change," added Coun. Derek Lindsay. Several of the councillors pointed out that Frosty's Arctic Pub would never be able to accommodate the larger events that people book municipal facilities for, such as weddings. Only buildings such as the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex are large enough to host that type of gathering, they said. That means, they emphasized, the town is not competing with businesses. Instead, it's offering a complementary service. There was no interest among councillors in introducing a motion to look at the matter further.
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