Ontario Expands Alcohol Sales to Over 4,000 Convenience Stores From Next Week

Starting next week, Ontario’s alcohol retail landscape is set for a significant transformation as over 4,000 convenience stores across the province receive licenses to sell alcoholic beverages. This move comes as part of the Ford government’s initiative to expand alcohol sales, a promise made by Premier Doug Ford during the 2018 election campaign.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced on Friday that it has approved 4,146 licenses, allowing these convenience stores to sell beer, wine, and ready-to-drink cocktails starting from next Thursday. This policy shift represents a major milestone in the province’s efforts to liberalize alcohol sales, offering Ontarians greater choice and convenience in purchasing alcoholic beverages.

In December, Premier Ford had initially set a timeline for all convenience and grocery stores to begin selling alcohol by 2026. However, in May, he expedited this timeline, enabling corner stores to start sales as early as September 5th. This decision is part of a broader effort by the Ontario government to provide more accessible alcohol purchasing options for residents.

According to the AGCO, their focus remains on ensuring that licensees adhere to the regulations governing the safe and responsible sale of alcohol. In a statement, AGCO CEO Karin Schnarr emphasized the commission’s commitment to monitoring compliance, stating, “As the next phase in Ontario’s expansion of the liquor retail market approaches, the AGCO is focused on ensuring licensees understand and comply with their obligations for the responsible sale of alcohol.”

The AGCO has already taken action against non-compliant stores. One store in Toronto’s west end was found selling liquor before the official start date and was subsequently served a notice of suspension following an unannounced inspection. This incident underscores the AGCO’s resolve in enforcing the new regulations.

The transition to expanded alcohol sales also included changes for grocery stores. Those already licensed were permitted to start selling pre-mixed cocktails and large packs of beer last month. Newly licensed grocery stores are set to begin selling these beverages on October 31st, further broadening the availability of alcohol throughout the province.

This expansion of alcohol sales was not without its challenges. The Ford government reached a $225 million settlement with The Beer Store, effectively terminating a 10-year agreement with the company. Under the new terms, The Beer Store will maintain at least 386 locations until July 2025 and 300 until December 2025. Additionally, The Beer Store’s respected recycling program will continue until at least 2031, ensuring environmental responsibility remains a priority.

The move to expand alcohol sales has sparked debate among health organizations and unions alike. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and its unionized workforce were at odds over the decision to allow the sale of ready-to-drink cocktails in convenience stores, which led to a strike involving 10,000 Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) members. The strike, which shut down 700 LCBO outlets for over two weeks, eventually ended with a new agreement.

Health experts, including those from Toronto’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), have voiced concerns over the potential public health implications of increased alcohol availability. They warn that easier access could lead to higher rates of alcohol dependence, chronic diseases, and related issues such as impaired driving and injuries.

In response to these concerns, the Ontario government has pledged $10 million to support social responsibility and public health initiatives related to alcohol consumption. This funding is part of a larger 10-year, $3.8 billion mental health plan aimed at mitigating the potential risks associated with the expanded alcohol market.

As Ontario enters this new chapter in alcohol retail, the government’s commitment to balancing convenience with public health and safety remains a critical aspect of the ongoing debate.