Starting September 5th, more than 4,000 convenience stores across Ontario will be licensed to sell alcohol, marking a major expansion of liquor sales beyond traditional outlets. This would allow alcohol in convenience stores on a larger scale.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced on Friday that it has approved 4,146 licenses for convenience stores to sell beer, wine, and ready-to-drink cocktails. It fulfills a promise made by Premier Doug Ford during his 2018 election campaign and accelerates the timeline for broader alcohol availability in the province.
Initially slated for completion by 2026, the expansion plan was fast-tracked in May, with corner stores now set to begin alcohol sales next week. The Ontario government has consistently framed this initiative as a means to provide residents with greater choice and convenience in their alcohol purchasing options.
Karin Schnarr, CEO of the AGCO, said in a statement, “As the next phase in Ontario’s expansion of the liquor retail market approaches, the AGCO is focused on ensuring licensees understand and comply with their obligations for the responsible sale of alcohol”. The commission says it will maintain a comprehensive compliance monitoring process and take strong measures to enforce social responsibility standards.
Grocery stores in Ontario already licensed to sell beer and wine were permitted to start offering pre-mixed cocktails and larger beer packages last month. Newly licensed grocery outlets will join the market on October 31st.
There have been challenges with expanding booze in Ontario. The province negotiated a $225 million deal with The Beer Store to break a previous 10-year agreement, ensuring the continuation of at least 386 Beer Store locations until July 2025 and a minimum of 300 stores until the end of that year. The Beer Store, owned by three international conglomerates, will maintain its recycling program until at least 2031.
The decision to allow alcohol in convenience stores outside the LCBO sparked labor tensions earlier this summer. Approximately 10,000 LCBO workers, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, went on strike for over two weeks. They cited concerns about the long-term viability of the LCBO in light of the expanded retail options.
Related article: Inside LCBO’s Relocated Downtown Toronto Waterfront Flagship
