Nip bottle sales in Fairfield raise money for environmental efforts

FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Fairfield liquor stores have sold more than 350,000 bottles of beer over the past six months, bringing a windfall to the city.

Under the state’s nickel-a-sip management program, Connecticut municipalities receive 5 cents for every small bottle of liquor sold within their borders, and the funding is earmarked for local environmental programs.

In Fairfield, a total of 356,904 bottles were sold in the six months from April 1 to September 30, generating $17,845.20 for the city.

“This program is working exactly as intended when it became law in 2021,” Larry Cafero, chief executive officer and general counsel for the wine and spirits wholesale industry, said in a statement. “The revenue it generates is used for waste collection and it even boosts recycling efforts across the state. In a state where many residents care about the environment, this is important.”

The program has brought in more than $13.5 million to Connecticut cities over the past three years, said Cafero, the former state representative.

“Any way you look at it, the program has been a resounding success,” Cafero said.