Alberta Rejects Liquor Sales in Grocery Stores to Protect Retail Sector

The province of Alberta has announced that it will not change its retail model to allow the sale of alcohol in grocery and convenience stores, citing concerns over the potential impact on the existing private retail system. 

In a statement released Wednesday, the Alberta government explained that an MLA advisory committee tasked with examining the issue recommended against expanding liquor sales beyond the current system.

Premier Danielle Smith and Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally supported the decision, stating that the current model offers a broad selection of products at competitive prices compared to other Canadian provinces. “I am pleased to accept those recommendations and ensure Alberta continues to uphold our current model, which is one of the most open in Canada,” Smith said in the release.

Scott Sinclair, MLA for Lesser Slave Lake and a member of the advisory committee, emphasized the potential harm that expanding alcohol sales could inflict on the province’s private retail sector. “Our review determined that such a move would significantly harm small businesses and could ultimately lead to widespread closures, job losses, and diminished selection for consumers,” he said.

Alberta’s liquor retail market is one of the most open in the country, with over 1,600 liquor stores offering more than 36,000 products. The decision to maintain the status quo follows a review launched in April after Ontario announced its decision to allow alcohol sales in grocery and convenience stores. Ontario’s policy came into effect in July, expanding liquor availability beyond public liquor stores and private outlets.

Although Alberta’s decision contrasts with Ontario’s approach, the province has seen some shifts in alcohol retailing. Convenience store chain 7-Eleven has begun selling alcohol at several locations in Edmonton, Calgary, and smaller municipalities in Alberta, but it does so under a restaurant license, rather than as a traditional convenience store.

Related:

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. bids for 7-Eleven stores and is purchasing GetGo Café +Markets

7-Eleven Expands Alcohol Offerings Across Ontario, Introducing In-Store Dining