New Marketplace for Beverage Alcohol in Ontario Will Uncork Niagara’s Grape and Wine Sector
Etobicoke – Today, the Ontario government announced that beginning no later than January 1, 2026, consumers will be able to buy beer, wine, cider, coolers, seltzers and other low-alcohol ready-to-drink beverages at all participating convenience, grocery and big box stores across the province. This new, more open marketplace will introduce up to 8,500 new stores where these products can be purchased, the largest expansion of consumer choice and convenience since the end of prohibition almost 100 years ago. Spirits like vodka, gin and whisky will continue to be sold at the LCBO.
“One of my first commitments as Niagara’s voice to Queen’s Park was to champion important regulatory changes to help local grape growers and farm families thrive and prosper,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.
“The grape and wine sector supports critical rural economic development, both in Niagara and across the province. Today’s good news announcement uncorks the potential of local craft wineries, cideries, breweries and distilleries, bringing good-paying jobs and prosperity to our region.”
“We made a promise to the people of Ontario to deliver more choice and convenience,” said Hon. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario.
“Today, we’re delivering on that promise. There’s no reason why Ontario consumers shouldn’t enjoy the same convenient shopping experience as Canadians in every other province.”
“Today is one of the best days the Ontario wine industry has had in decades,” said Aaron Dobbin, President and CEO of Wine Growers Ontario.
“The measures announced by the Ontario government are the first step in allowing Ontario wineries and grape growers to grow and thrive.”
“For decades, Ontario wineries have faced disadvantages that other wine producing regions do not face in their home markets,” said Richard Linley, President of Ontario Craft Wineries.
“Every dollar spent on wine grown in Ontario is a dollar going back into the economic growth of Ontario, through agricultural jobs, small business growth and agri-tourism.”
“The Grape Growers of Ontario extends our heartfelt appreciation to the Ontario government for its visionary approach to help Ontario’s grape and wine industry thrive and grow into its true potential,” said Debbie Zimmerman, CEO of Grape Growers of Ontario.
“The decision to extend the VQA support program for five years is a game-changer. It not only provides stability for both farmers and wineries, but it will also fuel growth. The elimination of the 6.1% Winery Retail Tax will invigorate Ontario wineries and make it possible for them reinvest in their businesses and drive innovation. Together, we toast to a thriving grape and wine landscape in Ontario.”
As a first step in the transition to a new retail marketplace, the government has informed Brewers Retail (The Beer Store) that the Master Framework Agreement (MFA), signed and extended for ten years by the previous government in 2015 and limited the number of retail stores that could be authorized to sell alcohol, will not be renewed after it expires on December 31, 2025. The Beer Store and LCBO will continue their retail operations in Ontario’s new marketplace.
“The people of Ontario will soon have more choice and convenience on where they can buy alcohol,” said Hon. Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance.
“As we move towards implementing this expansion, our government will be taking a responsible, measured approach so we can ensure our transition to a new marketplace is smooth, safe and stable.”
In the months ahead, the government will continue to meet and consult with industry partners, local beverage alcohol producers and other stakeholders on additional areas of the future marketplace including licensing, wholesale pricing and taxes, mark-ups and fees. The province will also conduct a broader review of taxes and fees on beer, wine and alcoholic beverages with the aim of promoting a more competitive marketplace for Ontario-based producers and consumers.