Ontario Convenience Stores Authorized to Sell Alcoholic Beverages

Starting September 5, 2024, all licensed convenience stores in Ontario are authorized to sell beer, wine, cider, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages. This change allows for a total of 4,187 convenience stores across the province to participate in the sale of these products, in addition to nearly 3,000 other licensed retail outlets and takeaway options from licensed bars and restaurants.

The Ontario government has stated that this expansion is part of a phased approach to increase consumer choice and convenience in the alcohol retail market. By the end of October 2024, every eligible convenience, grocery, and big-box store in Ontario will have the option to sell these alcoholic beverages.

Premier Doug Ford remarked that this initiative aims to provide Ontarians with the same choices available in other provinces. He noted that it also creates opportunities for local producers to sell their products in convenience stores.

The government has also introduced measures to facilitate the transfer of wine and spirits between locations owned by the same licensee and to allow licensed stores to display alcoholic beverages in multiple areas.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) will oversee the implementation of these changes to ensure compliance with existing regulations. The government plans to continue collaborating with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition into this expanded marketplace.