All five Costco locations in Ottawa are set to commence the sale of beer and wine today, following a province-wide expansion of alcohol sales in Ontario. As of October 31, eligible grocery and big-box stores across the province are permitted to offer a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cider, wine, and ready-to-drink options in large pack sizes. The Ontario government has announced that an additional 400 grocery stores will now sell alcohol.
“This is a significant shift. We are moving away from a century-long monopoly system and aligning ourselves with global standards,” said Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy during a press briefing.
This initiative marks the final phase of Ontario’s expansion of alcohol sales, which began in September when convenience stores were allowed to sell similar products. Previously, on August 1, licensed grocery stores were authorized to sell ready-to-drink beverages and larger quantities of beer.
Premier Doug Ford expressed satisfaction with the expansion, stating, “We promised to provide the people of Ontario with greater choice and convenience in purchasing alcoholic beverages, and with today’s changes, we have fulfilled that promise. This final phase will create new opportunities for retailers and Ontario producers alike. I encourage everyone to enjoy our local products responsibly.”
Currently, approximately 4,700 convenience stores and 850 grocery stores, including big-box retailers, are licensed to sell alcoholic beverages in Ontario.
Retailers selling alcohol must adhere to specific regulations:
Sales are permitted only between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Deliveries may occur between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Stores that are allowed to open on holidays can also sell alcohol during these hours. Violations of these hours can result in fines of up to $50,000. Additionally, restrictions on single container sales apply; no single container of beer, wine, or ready-to-drink beverage may exceed 5 liters or 18% alcohol content.
The following Costco locations in Ottawa will begin selling alcohol today:
- 770 Silver Seven Road
- 1849 Merivale Road
- 1900 Cyrville Road
- 4315 Strandherd Drive
- 1405 Blair Road
Other retailers permitted to sell alcohol include various Walmart and Farm Boy locations, along with several Food Basics, Loblaws, Metro, and independent grocers.
An interactive map has been launched by the Ontario government to help residents locate participating retailers.
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