As of February 5, 2016 that the Ontario government is making it easier for consumers in Oakville to purchase beer at local grocery stores. Consumers will now be able to purchase six-packs of beer at two Longo's locations and a FreshCo at 3rd Line & Dundas in Oakville.
The Government of Ontario is delivering on its promise to allow beer sales in grocery stores and recently announced the first 58 locations across the province. Two Longo's locations in Oakville - at 3455 Wyecroft Road and 469 Cornwall Road and a FreshCo at 3rd Line and Dundas are among the first grocery stores in Ontario authorized to sell beer.
"This isn't a question of if you build it, they will come. Beer sales through Grocery Gateway have been growing steadily because shoppers want the convenience of buying their food and drink in one place. Selling beer at Longo's is about improving the shopper experience and expanding the availability of beverages alongside food which simply makes sense," stated Roseanne Longo, Longo's Brothers Fruit Market.
"This is welcome news for us at Trafalgar Brewery. We're very excited to see our beer on grocery store shelves - not only within our community but in other markets as well," commented Mike Arnold, Owner, Trafalgar Brewery
Ultimately, beer will be available at up to 450 grocery stores province wide - roughly the same number of locations The Beer Store currently operates in Ontario. Beer in grocery stores is part of the biggest shakeup to beverage alcohol retailing in the province since the end of prohibition in 1927.
Ontario is expanding access responsibly. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, which visited all 58 locations as part of the authorization process, will now monitor them to ensure that they adhere to laws on the safe retail of alcohol. These include designated sales areas and hours of sale, limitations to package sizes and alcohol content by volume, and rigorous social responsibility training for staff.
Giving consumers more choice and convenience while creating a more level playing field for brewers is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives and building a secure retirement savings plan.
By offering more convenience and more choice, Ontario is making it easier for Oakville residents who want greater access to their favourite beers through their local grocery store. This is great news for beer consumers in Oakville and supporters of craft breweries. Wherever you buy your beer, please drink responsibly.
