The Ontario government says it will be fulfilling its promise to expand the alcohol beverage marketplace, offering more choices and convenience for shoppers sooner than planned.
Starting in August, consumers can buy new products like coolers and ready-to-drink beverages, along with more pack sizes, at grocery stores that currently sell wine or beer. Following this, new retailers will be able to sell a broader selection of local, domestic, and international alcohol products responsibly. By the end of October 2024, every convenience store, grocery store, and big-box store in Ontario will have the option to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.
Premier Doug Ford made the announcement today, which he says means convenience for the people of Ontario.
Convenience stores, more supermarkets, and gas stations with licenses can start selling alcohol this fall, earlier than the originally planned date of early 2026. Ford says it means thousands of new locations to buy alcohol.
As of August 1, grocery stores currently selling beer or wine can add ready to drink caned alcoholic drinks and larger size packs of beer. Then September 5th, they’ll start the rollout at convenience stores. After October 31st eligible grocery and big box stores can sell the products.
The Beer Store will get public funding to stay open, support recycling, bottle returns, and adapt to the new rules.
Retailers across the province can apply for licenses in the coming weeks, with sales starting this fall from 7:00am to 11:00pm daily.
Spirits will still only be sold at the LCBO.