CHEERS TO THAT: ‘We’re excited,’ cry shoppers as outright ban on selling 18+ product in stores is lifted – but some restrictions remain
According to THE SUN, Convenience stores across Ontario are now permitted to sell alcohol, a development that is exciting both shoppers and store owners. The expansion allows eligible convenience stores to offer beer, wine, cider, and ready-to-drink cocktails.
Business owners are eager about the potential for increased sales. “I have to admit, I’m excited—we’re all excited because sales are down due to the poor economy,” said Kenny Shim, store owner and president of the Ontario Convenience Store Association, as reported by the Toronto Sun. The association represents approximately 7,000 to 10,000 convenience stores in Ontario.
Licensing and Early Reactions
As of Tuesday, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario reported that it has issued 4,200 liquor licenses to eligible convenience stores, accounting for about 40% of those that applied. Of these, roughly 2,000 stores have already placed orders for alcohol through the Liquor Control Board of Ontario, which serves as the exclusive wholesaler for these stores.
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Corner stores, which have been facing economic challenges, view this new opportunity as highly promising. “We are very happy and hope that sales will improve—not by 30 to 40 percent, but there will be an increase,” said Muhammad Ikram, owner of an INS Market franchise in Toronto. Ikram anticipates that alcohol sales will also boost sales of related products like chips, tobacco, and soda.
Shim shares a similar optimism, expecting that alcohol sales will drive additional purchases. “When people come to buy a beer, they’ll also pick up peanuts, maybe some cups for beer pong, beef jerky, or bottle openers,” he noted.
Customer Excitement
The new policy is generating positive feedback from customers as well. Jay Landon, a customer in downtown Toronto, expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s good that a person like myself, who’s not an addict, can get alcohol if needed—whether for a party or a last-minute occasion.”
Regulations and Requirements
Convenience stores with liquor licenses must adhere to specific regulations. Alcohol can only be sold between 7 am and 11 pm. Store staff must be trained to handle alcohol sales and check for valid identification to ensure customers are of legal drinking age, which is 19 in Ontario.
Additionally, stores are required to stock at least 20% of their beer, cider, and pre-made cocktails from small Ontario breweries and cideries. At least 10% of the wine must also come from Ontario wineries.
Future Expansion Plans
This change is part of a broader three-phase plan in Ontario. The first phase began on August 1, allowing 450 grocery stores already licensed to sell beer, wine, or cider to offer ready-to-drink beverages. The final phase, set to roll out on October 31, will permit all eligible grocery and big-box stores to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages in larger pack sizes.
However, spirits will remain exclusively available at Liquor Control Board of Ontario stores and outlets, as noted by the Toronto Sun.
