7-Eleven stores across Ontario say they are ready to begin selling and delivering alcohol in September, at which point eligible convenience stores will be allowed to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink beverages.
The convenience store chain said it has received a liquor store license from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and is in the process of training its staff and preparing its 58 stores across the province for the Sept. 5 launch.
7-Eleven said the alcoholic beverage selection will “complement” the food offerings of taquitos, chicken wings and sandwiches.
A 7-Eleven spokesperson said in-store dining, which allows customers to consume alcohol in stores, will be “expanded later” once licensing is complete.
Breaking news from Canada and around the world delivered to your email address instantly.
Get the latest national news
Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered straight to you as news breaks from Canada and around the world.
Currently, there are only two licensed stores that offer a restaurant-like atmosphere, one in Leamington, Ontario, and the other in Niagara Falls. There are 20 licensed locations across Alberta, the chain said.
7-Eleven said it will create new jobs by expanding alcohol sales at its stores and expects to add approximately 60 full-time jobs once the expansion of alcohol sales at its Ontario stores is complete.
The Ford government released an accelerated plan to expand alcohol sales. Ontarians can now buy beer – including in bulk -, cider, wine and ready-to-drink beverages in grocery stores. Next on the list were convenience stores, with a September 5 date, followed by big-box stores on October 31.
© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
