ONTARIO EXPANDING THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES THIS SUMMER

Starting in August, the Ontario government has announced that consumers will be able to purchase new products like coolers and other ready-to-drink beverages alongside more pack sizes at grocery stores that currently sell wine or beer. It is anticipated that by the end of October 2024, every convenience, grocery and big-box store in Ontario will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages if they choose to do so.

The most important key dates for this summer expansion are indicated below:

August 1, 2024 – Up to 450 grocery stores that are currently licensed to sell beer, cider or wine will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages. These grocery stores will also be able to start offering consumers large-pack sizes like the 30-pack that is popular in Quebec.

September 5, 2024 – All eligible convenience stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.

October 31, 2024 – All eligible grocery and big-box stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink beverages, including in large pack sizes.

The government has posted the regulations related to eligibility and license structure, along with the terms of who can sell alcohol, the rules for selling alcohol.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) oversees the enforcement of the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019, and determines consequence for retailers who breach these rules, up to and including the loss of their licence to sell alcohol. If a retailer’s licence is revoked or an application is denied, they cannot reapply for two years. The AGCO will be taking strong measures with respect to social responsibility infractions as part of its continued role in the new marketplace. Chand & Co. is committed to ensuring that your liquor license sales application is completed correctly and ensures that they follow the guidelines and best practices set forth by the AGCO throughout the application process.

If you are a convenience or retail store owner and would like to discuss the liquor license application process in Ontario, or if you require any assistance with the application process with the AGCO, please feel free to contact our law office for a consultation at 416-583-2377 or admin@chandlitigation.com.

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