Nationwide Examination of Beer and Wine Availability in Convenience Stores across Canada

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent announcement of the Province’s alcohol expansion plans has sparked a debate on alcohol sales across the country. By Labour Day weekend, Ontarians could be picking up a six-pack at their local convenience store on the way to the cottage, with ready-to-drink beverages and larger cases of beer set to hit grocery stores by Aug. 1 and corner stores by Sept. 5.

While Ontario is gearing up for this expansion, other provinces have varying approaches to alcohol sales. British Columbia offers alcohol in both provincially owned and private liquor stores, while Alberta exclusively sells alcohol through private retailers. Manitoba has a mix of private and public sales, with government-run stores in urban areas and private vendors in rural communities. In Québec, liquor and most wines are available through the provincial liquor board, while beer, cider, and some wine are sold in convenience stores and supermarkets.

Currently, Ontarians can purchase alcohol from government-run LCBO stores and privately owned The Beer Store. The move to expand alcohol sales to grocery and convenience stores has raised concerns about the potential social impacts. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and the Ontario Public Health Association (OPHA) have expressed worries about increased alcohol consumption leading to more harm, including chronic diseases, violence, and road accidents.

Rising Tide Consultants president Bert Hick highlighted the importance of responsible alcohol sales, especially in preventing underage drinking and supporting those with alcohol addiction. CAMH has suggested measures to mitigate the expansion’s harms, such as minimum distances between convenience stores and schools, and allowing municipalities to opt out of the expansion.

Despite the Ford government’s $10 million investment in social responsibility and public health efforts, concerns remain about the potential negative consequences of making alcohol more accessible. Hick emphasized the need for additional measures to address the social issues that could arise from the expansion.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the Ontario government will navigate the challenges of expanding alcohol sales while ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.