Ontario Accelerates Timeline for Alcohol Sales in Grocery Stores

The Ontario government has announced that licensed grocery stores will be able to order and sell ready-to-drink beverages and large beer pack sizes starting July 18, 2024. This change moves the original start date up from August 1, 2024.

Currently, 450 grocery stores in Ontario are licensed to sell beer, cider, or wine. These stores will be able to sell the new products as soon as they arrive in-store.

By the end of October 2024, all convenience, grocery, and big-box stores in Ontario will have the option to sell beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages. This expansion is part of the government's plan to increase consumer choice and convenience.

The government is also temporarily allowing licensed grocery stores to display alcohol in multiple areas of the store and permitting the transfer of wine and spirits between locations with the same owner or affiliated licensees to help manage inventory and ensure consistent supply.