Ontario Set to Introduce Alcohol Sales in Corner Stores by September
Premier Doug Ford declared Friday morning that corner stores will be stocking beer, wine, and cider by the end of the summer, a notable advancement from the previous timeline. The province had initially aimed for expanded sales before January 1, 2026, but this announcement accelerates the process significantly.
However, the move comes with its share of inquiries about its costs, though advocates argue that the advantages are evident: increased employment opportunities and greater tax revenue for the government.
Commencing on August 1, grocery stores currently offering alcohol will have the opportunity to broaden their selections, including ready-to-drink cocktails like canned Caesars and larger beer cases. By September 5, convenience stores will follow suit, while new grocery outlets and major retailers such as Costco can join the fray as of October 31.
One aspect under scrutiny is the commitment to allocate up to $225 million to The Beer Store over the next 19 months for what is described as “additional costs.”
These expenses will encompass the expansion of distribution and recycling facilities to accommodate the influx of new stores. A fresh agreement between the province and TBS outlines intentions to “facilitate the utilization of TBS and its efficient recycling and distribution systems for the benefit of Ontario on terms acceptable to the Parties.”
The expansion within grocery stores may kick off as early as August 1, granting licensed grocery outlets the ability to sell ready-to-drink beverages alongside large-pack sizes of beer.
Convenience stores will gain permission to begin selling beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages as soon as September 5.
Starting from October 31, all qualifying grocery and major retail stores will have the green light to offer beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages, including bulk packaging options.
