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More Beer Stores set to close as Ontario convenience competition continues [Video]

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Ontario News

The Beer Store has announced it plans to close a raft of stores, including in locations like Windsor, Toronto and Oakville, as the alcohol sales landscape continues to adjust in Ontario.

Last year, the Ford government followed through on a long-term promise to allow convenience stores, grocers and big box retailers to sell a range of alcoholic drinks, including beer.

The plan negotiated a break with The Beer Store, which had previously had an exclusive alcohol retail agreement with the province. It earmarked $225 million for the chain, including measures to reduce store closures.

Under the agreement with the government, at least 300 Beer Store locations must remain open until the end of 2025. After that, there will be no restrictions on shutdowns.

Since the agreement was signed, the Beer Store has announced several closures, without dipping below the number of stores it promised to keep open.

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The latest announcement means 11 more locations will close their doors …

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