Reported by Richard Coffin
The province says it doesn’t have to be a dry summer.
Pickets went up at LCBO stores across Ontario at 12:01 am Friday.
On Monday morning, the province launched an interactive map with nearby stores selling beer, wine, cider or spirits, including Ontario-made products, during the LCBO labour disruption.
The province says these retailers include more than 1,000 local Ontario breweries, wineries, wine shops and distilleries, in addition to other retailers such as LCBO Convenience Outlets, The Beer Store and licenced grocery stores that sell a range of Ontario-made and imported products.
“This new map is a great way to connect people across the province to local Ontario-made products and support the hundreds of Ontario businesses and thousands of Ontario workers who make these products and serve customers each and every day,” says Premier Doug Ford. “It also supports our plan to offer consumers the kind of choice and convenience available to other Canadians when purchasing alcoholic beverages, starting later this summer.”
The government says starting August 1st, grocery stores that are currently licensed to sell beer, wine or cider will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages and large-pack sizes.
On September 5th, licensed convenience stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink beverages.
By the end of October that will include every eligible convenience, grocery and big-box store in Ontario, if they choose to get involved.
