‘CHOICE AND CONVENIENCE’: All Ontario grocery, big-box stores can now sell alcohol

Article content

Why not pick up a bottle of Merlot to complement the pack of steaks in your shopping cart?

As part of the Ontario government’s final plan to give residents convenience, all licensed grocery and big-box grocery stores can now sell booze – beer, wine, cider and ready-to-drink beverages, including large pack sizes.

Thursday’s announcement is the final phase of a three-phase rollout in expanding Ontario’s alcohol beverage marketplace.

The first phase occurred on July 18 when up to 450 grocery stores were permitted to sell alcohol. On Sept. 5, convenience stores were added to the mix.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said his government promised to give residents “choice and convenience” when it came to buying alcohol, noting “we got it done.”

“This last phase of expansion will create new opportunities for retailers of all sizes and for Ontario producers of beer, wine, cider and ready-to-drink beverages,” Ford said in a media release. “I hope everyone gets the chance to pick up one of these fantastic Ontario-made products and enjoy responsibly!”

Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy said Thursday’s expansion marked a “significant milestone” for grocery stores and consumers as the province’s alcohol marketplace continues to be modernized.

“Our vision for a better market has become a reality with the support of retailers, domestic producers and workers in the alcohol industry, as well as the people and businesses across the province,” Bethlenfalvy said in a media release.

In addition to the sale of ready-to-consume alcoholic drinks and large pack sizes of beer in grocery stores, the Ford government has also allowed more flexibility on how the beverages can be de displayed – subject to certain limits.

For bars and restaurants with inventory management, the Ontario government has also allowed the transfer of wine and spirits between locations owned by the same entity or affiliated licensees.