Ontario accelerates alcohol expansion plans [Video]

As the LCBO strike enters its second week, the Ontario government is speeding up its alcohol expansion plans, announcing licensed grocery stores will be able to start selling ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages as of July 18.

The announcement marks a two-week acceleration of the province’s plan to expand alcohol sales across Ontario, with an end goal of introducing beer, cider, wine and RTDs to convenience stores by Sept. 5.

• Download our app to get alerts on your device
• Get the latest local updates right to your inbox

“Our government is keeping our promise to give people in Ontario choice and convenience while supporting Ontario-made beverage producers across the province, including the Ontario businesses that produce more than 80 per cent of the ready-to-drink beverages sold here in our province,” Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said in a news release issued Monday.

The first phase of the plan – which was scheduled to begin on Aug. 1 – gives grocery stores which are already licensed the ability to order …