I fully support the regulatory change in the portion of 3VAC5-50-40 that permits the sale of beer growlers in 'gourmet shops'.

This regulatory change permits customers to select and purchase craft(i.e. microbrew) beer in the draft beer in growler bottles and this added convenience of the method of purchasing draft craft beer is beneficial in several ways.

1. The change benefits consumers. It gives them a more convenient way to purchase draft craft beer for consumption at home. Gourmet shops will provide easier parking and purchase transactions than other purchase places. It gives the consumers a place to learn about craft beers from knowledgable store personnel.  It provides consumers a convenient way to purchase products that typically accompany the purchase of craft beer for consumptiion in private homes.

2. The change benefits craft beer breweries.  It provides breweries a new retail outlet for them to offer their beers and to introduce new products. Locally produced beers will typically be the main beers offered and featured, thus supporting the growing number of craft breweries in Virginia.

3. The change benefits retail gourmet shops. It provides an important new product to help draw customers to the shops.

4. The change benefits Virginia.  It demonstrates that Virginia is a national leader in support of the craft beer industry by being one of the first states to changing its requlations regarding growlers.  This supports the evidence that Virginia is a friendly environment in which to do business and it supports the growth of the craft breweries in Virginia.

5. The change benefits our environment.  The sale of beer in reusable bottles reduces the quantity of packaging that is sent to the landfill or recyclying centers.

Thank you for supporting this change in regulations.

Reid P. Carter

1/5/14