Beverage alcohol in Ontario: Resource

With the Ontario Government announcing May 24th that licensed convenience stores will be able to sell beer, cider, wine able and ready-to-drink cocktails as of September 5, 2024, the industry is shifting into high-gear to take advantage of this long-awaited opportunity. 

Things are moving quickly and there's a lot to do and learn in the coming months. With that in mind, we aim to be your go-to resource for the latest news and information. 

On this page, we will provide resources and aggregate the barrage of news so you don't have to. Please earmark this page and visit often.  

Key dates

June 11, 2024: The Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario hosted a webinar with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) for convenience and grocery store operators interested in selling beverage alcohol. The webinar will address eligibility requirements, the application process, and legal requirements to become a responsible private retailer of beverage alcohol. *Note, download a copy of the webinar slides below.  Watch the video here.

June 17, 2024: The  AGCO will begin accepting applications for retail licences from convenience stores and grocery stores.

August 1, 2024: The 450 grocery stores currently licensed to sell beer, cider or wine will also be able to sell ready-to-drink beverages and make available large-pack sizes.  **UPDATE, with the LCBO strike, the government has said stores will be able to order RTD cocktails to sell as of July 18. 

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.

Helpful links

Watch AGCO and LCBO info webinar here.

Sign up for an iAGCO account here. 

Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario

How to apply for a licence

LCBO’s website

Convenience Store Licence Obligation Guide