The LCBO strike has started but you still have options to buy liquor.
You could buy direct from a distillery, if there’s one nearby, and you’ll still be able to shop online through LCBO.com and the LCBO’s mobile app. Or you could head out of the city and find an LCBO Convenience Outlet (formerly agency store).
The LCBO Convenience Outlet program provides beverage alcohol retail access in communities that do not have an LCBO store nearby. Under the program, the LCBO authorizes independent local retailers to sell beverage alcohol in conjunction with other goods.
There are more than 400 of these Ontario locations, from Ailsa Craig to Zephyr and many places in between.
Keep in mind, these stores are not the LCBO with thousands of products on store shelves that you may be used to; they are independent retailers that set aside a section of their store for alcohol sales, so drink options may be limited.
But if the strike does happen, the LCBO says its wholesale operation will continue. The LCBO supplies approximately 2,300 private retail points of sale, including the LCBO Convenience Outlets.
If you’re looking for an LCBO Convenience Outlet location, the LCBO keeps a list of them online.
Other alcohol options
Besides the LCBO Convenience Outlets, a variety of drinks can still be bought from licensed grocery stores and other private retailers like The Beer Store across the province.
Drinks will also continue to be served at bars and restaurants, as well as the LCBO’s Specialty Services and Duty-Free shops.
There are many wine retailers in Ontario, including:
Wine Rack
- Location: Various options, enter your address here to find the closest to you.
- Details: Same-day delivery available.
The Wine Shop
- Location: Various options, enter your address here to find the closest to you.
- Details: Get free shipping on orders over $149 in Ontario.
— With files from the Toronto Star
