Ontario Expands Alcohol Sales to Boost Consumer Choice and Convenience

The Ontario government is set to revolutionize its alcohol beverage marketplace, enhancing choice and convenience for shoppers across the province. Starting in August, consumers will be able to purchase a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages, from an expanded range of retailers such as convenience stores, grocery stores, and big-box stores. Premier Doug Ford announced the initiative, stating, “We are delivering on our commitment to give consumers in Ontario the choice and convenience every other Canadian enjoys and we’re doing so even sooner than we had originally promised.” He highlighted the benefits for consumers, adding, “In the coming weeks and months, people in Ontario, like many Canadians across the country, will have the option to responsibly and conveniently purchase a case of beer or a bottle of wine on their way up to the cottage or to a summer barbecue, all while having even more opportunity to support local Ontario breweries and wineries.”

The expansion will be rolled out in phases, starting on August 1, 2024, when up to 450 grocery stores currently licensed to sell beer, cider, or wine will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages and larger pack sizes like the 30-pack popular in Quebec. After September 5, 2024, eligible convenience stores will start selling beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages. By October 31, 2024, all eligible grocery and big-box stores will be able to sell the full range of alcoholic beverages, including large pack sizes. The initiative aims to create a more open and convenient alcohol marketplace, with individual retailers deciding how and when to participate.

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from various industry stakeholders. Anne Kothawala, President & CEO of the Convenience Industry Council of Canada, praised the move, saying, “Today’s announcement is another important step toward modernizing Ontario’s alcohol regime for our businesses and consumers. The Convenience Industry Council of Canada commends Premier Doug Ford and Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy for providing Ontarians with the choice and convenience they want, while creating new economic opportunities for thousands of local corner stores.” Scott Simmons, President of the Ontario Craft Brewers, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the benefits for craft brewers: “It is great news that craft brewers will be able to sell their fantastic products in more retail stores starting this year. We have been relentless in advocating for a new retail system that puts consumers first and makes it easier to find local beer. Today’s announcement is a big step in that direction.”

The government is taking steps to support local producers and ensure the responsible sale of alcohol. An additional $10 million over five years will be allocated to support social responsibility and public health efforts. Existing requirements related to staff training, minimum pricing, hours of sale, and warning signs will be maintained across all new retail outlets. Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, emphasized the balanced approach, stating, “Our responsible and balanced approach treats Ontario consumers like adults by giving them more choice and convenience, while also supporting Ontario retailers, domestic producers and workers in the alcohol industry.”

The Beer Store and LCBO will continue to play significant roles in the new marketplace. The Beer Store will receive up to $225 million over the next 19 months to support the transition, protect jobs, and maintain its recycling and bottle return services. The LCBO will remain a public asset, continuing to offer a full range of spirits and maintaining its wholesaler and retailer roles. The government has also committed to a broader review of taxes and fees on beer, wine, and alcoholic beverages to promote a fairer and more competitive marketplace. This review is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

This initiative marks the largest expansion of consumer choice and convenience in Ontario’s alcohol market since the end of prohibition nearly 100 years ago. By introducing up to 8,500 new retail locations for alcohol sales, the government aims to boost local economies and support domestic producers, while providing Ontarians with greater accessibility and selection. For more information, consumers and retailers are encouraged to visit the Ontario government’s official website and stay informed about the upcoming changes.