Alberta Rejects Plan to Expand Liquor Sales to Grocery Stores

The decision follows a review that highlighted potential harm to small businesses and job losses.

The Alberta government decided against allowing grocery and convenience stores to sell alcohol after a panel review.
The review concluded that expanding liquor sales could lead to closures of existing liquor stores, job losses, and reduced product variety.
The decision aims to protect the province's 1,600 privately-owned liquor stores and maintain their success.
The panel consulted with various stakeholders, including industry representatives and advocacy groups, before making its recommendation.
The move contrasts with Ontario's recent decision to allow grocery and convenience stores to sell certain alcoholic beverages.