In Zone 3, the largest tobacco and liquor store in Mo City, having narrowly escaped being sealed off by authorities, finally reopened after a three-month suspension. Reputation once damaged, old customers lost, and new ones reluctant to step in, the unscrupulous owner was in constant fear of incarceration while trying to muster the energy to actively promote the business in all areas. It is hard to build a business reputation over the years, but it collapses easily.
"The several major hotels in the city that we've long been supplying have all canceled their orders," one employee said.
"The newly opened ones say they dare not use our liquor," another employee added.
"Though, there are a few supermarkets that have said they can try selling our alcoholic products," finally some good news, "but they're demanding a shelving fee—forty percent for shelf placement."
