Ontario convenience stores will soon have the ability to sell fortified wine, as the provincial government has announced changes to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regulations.
This decision comes after years of debate and lobbying from convenience store owners, who argued that allowing them to sell fortified wine would increase their revenue and provide more convenience for customers.
Fortified wine, also known as “wine with added spirits,” is a type of wine that has been fortified with additional alcohol, typically brandy. It is often used as a dessert wine or in cooking.
Currently, convenience stores in Ontario are only allowed to sell beer, cider, and coolers. The sale of wine and spirits is restricted to the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and the Beer Store.
The new regulations, which will come into effect on January 1, 2022, will allow convenience stores to sell fortified wine with an alcohol content of up to 22.9%. This is in line with the current limit for beer and cider.
However, there are some restrictions in place. Convenience stores will only be able to sell fortified wine that is produced in Ontario and has been approved by the AGCO. They will also have to follow strict rules for displaying and selling the product, including age verification and limiting the amount that can be purchased at one time.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Convenience store owners are pleased with the change, as it will provide them with a new source of revenue. However, some critics argue that it could lead to increased alcohol consumption and harm to public health.
In response, the AGCO has stated that they will closely monitor the sale of fortified wine in convenience stores and will take action if necessary to ensure responsible consumption.
This change in regulations is part of the Ontario government’s efforts to modernize alcohol sales in the province. In addition to allowing convenience stores to sell fortified wine, the government has also expanded the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores and introduced online sales through the LCBO.
Overall, the decision to allow convenience stores to sell fortified wine is a significant change in Ontario’s alcohol retail landscape. It remains to be seen how it will impact the industry and the public, but for now, convenience store owners can look forward to a new opportunity for growth.
