Lesser Slave Lake MLA Scott Sinclair said expanding liquor sales to grocery and convenience stores may seem convenient for customers, but may have a detrimental effect on the retail store industry
The province of Alberta will not be changing its retail model to allow the sale of alcohol in grocery and convenience stores, saying it would “significantly harm” the existing private retail model.
In a news release early Wednesday, the government announced the MLA advisory committee examining the issue has recommended against expanding liquor sales to other locations.
In the statement, Premier Danielle Smith and Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally hailed the current system as providing varied selection with competitive prices compared to other Canadian jurisdictions.
“I am pleased to accept those recommendations and ensure Alberta continues to uphold our current model, which is one of the most open in Canada,” Smith stated.
Committee member and Lesser Slave Lake MLA Scott Sinclair added expanding liquor sales to grocery and convenience stores may seem convenient for customers, but may have a detrimental effect on the retail store industry.
“Our review determined that such a move would significantly harm small businesses and could ultimately lead to widespread closures, job losses and diminished selection for consumers,” he stated.
The province says there are more than 1,600 liquor stores in Alberta, selling a total of 36,000 liquor products.