TORONTO — As of September 5, all licensed convenience stores in Ontario now sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic beverages, in addition to nearly 3,000 other licensed retail outlets as well as takeaway options from licensed bars and restaurants.
By the end of October 2024, as part of the government’s plan to expand alcohol sales, every eligible convenience, grocery and big-box store in Ontario will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.
The government is also permanently allowing the transfer of wine and spirits between locations with the same owner and/or affiliated licensees in order to help bars and restaurants effectively manage inventory.
“The above is welcomed news,” says Kris Barnier, VP, Central Canada, Restaurants Canada. “It’s a sensible move that cuts red tape, helps businesses, and helps mitigate risk in the event of future labour disruptions and/or product shortages.”
The government also reiterated that it’ll continue to consult with the industry on the future of alcohol transformation. Earlier this year, Restaurants Canada struck a working group of members who are helping staff build out its recommendations to the Government of Ontario for how and why the Ford Government should take further action to reduce wholesale pricing on alcohol for restaurants and bars.
