BRIDGEPORT, CT — More than 1.7 million nip bottles were sold at liquor stores in Bridgeport over the past six moths, which led to a windfall for the city.
Under the state’s “nickel-per-nip” stewardship program, Connecticut municipalities receive 5 cents for each small, nip alcohol bottle sold within its borders, and the funding is intended for locally driven environmental programs.
In Bridgeport, a total of 1,766,303 nip bottles were sold during the six-month period from April 1 through Sept. 30, generating $88,315.15 for the city.
“This program is working exactly as was intended when it became law in 2021,” said Larry Cafero, Executive Director and General Counsel of the Wine and Spirit Wholesalers, in a statement. “The revenue it generates is being used to clean up litter, and it’s even enhanced recycling efforts across the State. In a State where many residents care about the environment, that matters.”
Over the past three years, the program has generated more than $13.5 million for Connecticut’s towns and cities, according to Cafero, a former state representative.
“No matter how you look at it, the program’s been a resounding success,” Cafero said.