The Ontario government is set to expand the province’s alcohol beverage marketplace, increasing choice and convenience for shoppers ahead of schedule. Beginning in August, consumers will be able to purchase new products, such as coolers and other ready-to-drink beverages, alongside more pack sizes at grocery stores that currently sell wine or beer. By the end of October 2024, every convenience, grocery, and big-box store in Ontario will be able to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages if they choose to do so.
“We are delivering on our commitment to give consumers in Ontario the choice and convenience every other Canadian enjoys and we’re doing so even sooner than we had originally promised,” said Premier Doug Ford. “In the coming weeks and months, people in Ontario, like many Canadians across the country, will have the option to responsibly and conveniently purchase a case of beer or a bottle of wine on their way up to the cottage or to a summer barbecue, all while having even more opportunity to support local Ontario breweries and wineries.”
The phased expansion and rollout will begin this summer with key milestones:
- August 1, 2024: Up to 450 grocery stores currently licensed to sell beer, cider, or wine will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages.
- September 5, 2024: All eligible convenience stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.
- October 31, 2024: All eligible grocery and big-box stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages, including in large pack sizes.
Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy stated, “Our balanced approach treats Ontario consumers like adults by giving them more choice and convenience while supporting retailers, domestic producers, and workers in the alcohol industry.”
Amarjot Sandhu, MPP, added, “This expansion modernizes Ontario’s alcohol sales, offering greater convenience for residents and a boost to local businesses and producers. It benefits our communities and contributes to the economic growth of our province.”
Charmaine Williams, MPP, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This initiative is a win-win for consumers and businesses alike. It balances convenience with social responsibility and supports local economies.”
The Ontario government is providing up to $225 million to support a stable transition to a more open marketplace, protecting jobs and ensuring the continued availability of recycling and bottle return services. An additional $10 million over five years will support social responsibility and public health efforts.
