On December 14, 2023, the government announced plans to increase choice and convenience for Ontarians by allowing the sale of beer, wine, cider and low-alcohol ready-to-drink beverages at participating convenience, grocery and big box stores across the province.

On May 24, 2024, the government announced further details which included that starting August 1, 2024, the up to 450 grocery stores that are currently licensed to sell beer, cider or wine will also be able to sell ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and large-pack sizes of beer.

We are committed to helping you navigate accessing an expanded catalogue and your other responsibilities.

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Ontario Deposit Recycling Program (ODRP)

Starting October 31, 2024, customers will be able to return empty alcohol containers to select grocery stores who will be participating in the Ontario Deposit Return Program (ODRP). 

Licensed grocery stores located more than 5km from The Beer Store locations will be required to participate in the Ontario Deposit Return Program. Grocery stores located within 5km of The Beer Store (as of September 3, 2024) are exempt from these requirements until January 1, 2026.

Learn more about ODRP and your role as a participating or non-participating store by visiting our latest update.
 

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What will happen with my Wholesale Supply Agreement with the LCBO?

The Wholesale Supply Agreement is currently under review to ensure compliance with the changes in the regulations.   The existing Wholesale Supply Agreement remains in effect until such time. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
 

When will I be able to order? 

We will share your expanded catalogue in early July. You will be able to order eligible RTD and large-pack sizes of beer from July 18, 2024.
 

Can I sell wine? What are the restrictions?

If an existing grocery store has an AGCO licence for beer and wine, it is eligible to continue selling wine. If an existing grocery store has an AGCO licence for beer and cider, it is not eligible to sell wine until January 2031 unless it enters into a wine boutique agreement.  

If you hold an AGCO licence and have questions about activities under your licence, please contact the AGCO.  
 

When can I start selling beer and RTD?

The regulations state that currently licensed grocers cannot start selling ready-to-drink products or large pack sizes of beer until August 1, 2024. 
 

How will my LCBO wholesale price change? 

While the wholesale price for currently licensed grocers differs today, when you order starting July 18, 2024, your wholesale price will reflect a new 10% discount on the LCBO basic price (LCBO retail price less HST and container deposit). Note: This approach will change when LCBO adopts a cost-plus wholesale pricing structure.
 

How will the changes affect my retail price (the price I sell to customers)?

Effective September 5, 2024, uniform pricing will no longer apply. Retailers can choose to set their own prices. Minimum retail pricing regulations, including the $10.95 per 750 mL floor price for wine, will continue to apply. Promotional Limited Time Offers (LTOs) in LCBO’s retail stores will no longer impact pricing in grocery stores as of September 5, 2024.   
 

What are my new obligations as part of the Ontario Deposit Return Program (ODRP)?

Starting October 31, 2024, grocery stores will be required to accept empties, refund deposits, and meet some additional requirements. Some exemptions apply – see below.

As part of the announced changes, grocery stores will be required to
     • accept empty containers during the hours in which alcohol is offered for sale
     • refund deposits on eligible containers to consumers
     • sort containers into four categories (aluminum, refillable bottles, clear glass and coloured glass)
     • coordinate pick-up with The Beer Store
     • keep the required records   

The LCBO will reimburse the grocer for the refunded deposits. Containers will be picked up from the premises. Provided that the required sorting is complete, grocers will receive a handling fee of $0.02 per container.

A grocery store is exempt from these requirements until January 2026 if it is located within 5km of The Beer Store (as of September 3, 2024). All exempt grocery stores must post signage identifying the closest place(s) to return containers in accordance with requirements set by LCBO.

Convenience stores are exempt and must post signage identifying the closest place(s) to return containers in accordance with requirements set by LCBO. Convenience stores have the option to opt-in to participate in the program and would be subject to the requirements outlined above. 

The LCBO will contact you if you will be required to accept empty containers starting October 31, 2024 or if you are exempt and required to post signage (this signage will be provided to you and available on the relevant website).  

Additional details can be found in section 17 of Ontario Regulation 745/21 the general regulation. We will provide everything you need to know about your ODRP responsibilities when you complete your on-boarding in the coming months. 
 

What happens to my current Beer & Cider or Beer & Wine licence?  

Existing Grocery Licensees will have their licence converted to the new Grocery Store Licence on August 1, 2024.  
 

What do I do if I want to get a new licence?

Applications for new grocery store alcohol licences open on June 17. We encourage you to visit agco.ca for information.
 

Who do I contact for more information? 

Contact us at lcbogroceryoperations@lcbo.com with any questions. 
 

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